When Oprah ate at Giovanni's on the Hill in St. Louis, they named a pasta dish after her! You don't have to be Oprah to enjoy this delicious dish—treat yourself to some tonight!
Servings: Makes 4 servings
Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 2 ounces fresh basil leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 tablespoon imported Parmesan cheese , grated
  • 1 tablespoon imported Pecorino cheese , grated
  • Scant cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 cups roughly chopped tomatoes
  • 1 small onion , finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 teaspoon seasoning salt (or more, to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Chopped fresh basil
    • Directions
    Lightly toast the pine nuts in a hot oven, about 400°F.

    Rinse and dry the basil leaves. Place in a mortar or blender, add salt, garlic and the pine nuts and pound or blend into a paste. Add the cheeses gradually. When the paste is smooth, transfer to a bowl and gradually stir in the olive oil, using a wooden spoon.

    Place the two tablespoons of olive oil in a saucepan with garlic and onion; simmer. Add the tomatoes, basil, seasoning salt and pepper. Simmer for 20 to 30 minutes until the tomatoes have reduced almost to a puree. Press through a sieve or strainer.

    Check the seasoning and if desired, stir in any remaining basil before serving. Serve over pappardelle or your favorite pasta (prepare according to directions on the box.)
    Published 01/01/2006

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