Simple Garlic and Basil Pesto

"This recipe is something that you can make quickly and easily using a blender. Everything you need is easy to find in your local supermarket. This paste is great for putting on or in meat and pastas, or with cottage cheese in stuffed pasta shells. Once I start making this, the orders from friends and family keep coming in. For best taste, pesto should be heated up in the meal it's being prepared with."

INGREDIENTS

• 3 cups chopped fresh basil
• 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup pine nuts
• 1/8 cup Brazil nuts
• 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

DIRECTIONS

1. Place the basil in a blender. Pour in about 1 tablespoon of the oil, and blend basil into a paste. Gradually add pine nuts, Brazil nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, chili powder, and remaining oil. Continue to blend until smooth.

Garlic and Onion Burgers

"This recipe makes very flavorful burgers. The secret is refrigerating the meat after adding the other ingredients. Use ground round or sirloin for the best results."

INGREDIENTS (Nutrition)

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup minced onion
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian-style seasoning

DIRECTIONS

1. In a large bowl, mix together the beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onion, salt, pepper and Italian seasoning. Refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours.
2. Preheat grill for high heat.
3. Form burgers into 1/2 inch thick patties. Lightly oil grate. Place burgers on grill. Cook for approximately 6 minutes, turning once.