When I think of pesto, I think green, as in parsley, cilantro, and basil. Pesto is the ultimate Italian spread and another way to use fresh vegetables hiding in a refrigerator near you. A classic pesto might involve basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and parmesan cheese, but if you are like us, you may want to create your own masterpiece. Not only will your pesto pop with a variety of flavors, but making it is tons of fun.

A few days ago, John made a pesto that tasted amazing, and I have listed the basic recipe below. Please note that ingredient amounts are not always listed, and when they are, the amounts are suggestions, not absolutes. We often leave specifics up to the chef to allow for personal choice in flavor and consistency. John and I are “tasters,” people who sample our creations while in progress to make sure our final product is just right. Meals are as much art as they are science.

For example, check out this colorful and flavorful salad featuring pesto. Do you see it on the plate next to the avocado?

What’s in John’s Amazing Pesto? I thought you’d never ask.

• Three artichoke hearts
• a handful of green and kalamata olives
• a handful of cherry tomatoes
• olive oil (just enough to achieve your chosen consistency)
• One tablespoon capers
• Three garlic cloves
• 1/4 cup chopped onions

Finely chop the solid ingredients. Then add olive oil to create the perfect bread spread or vegetable garnish. Presto, you now have pesto. Enjoy!