Margherita Pasta

Pestos are easy to make, quick, and taste great.  We love them.  This one uses Basil Pesto.

1 package Bow Tie pasta (16 oz.)
2 cups fresh basil leaves
2 cloves garlic
1/4 cup pine nuts
1 package grape or champagne tomatoes, halved
2/3 cup olive oil
1 package asiago cheese
salt and pepper to taste

1.  In a large bot, bring water to boil and cook pasta according to directions.
2.  Meanwhile to prepare the pesto, in a food processor, blend the basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, salt and pepper and grind thoroughly.
3.  As the food prodcessor runs, add the olive oil slowly until the pesto is smooth in consistency.
4.  Add 2 handfulls of cheese and blend with the food processor again.
5.  Empty pesto into large serving dish and add pasta.   Mix the pasta with the pesto adding about 1/2 of the pasta cooking liquid.
6.  Add tomatoes and extra cheese and mix thoroughly.  Makes about 8 servings.