Creating Pumpkin Seed Pesto is a breeze when you follow these simple steps:

1. Measure Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients including pumpkin seeds, basil, garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Toast Pumpkin Seeds: (Optional) For added flavor, lightly toast pumpkin seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown. Allow to cool.
3. Blend Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the pumpkin seeds, basil leaves, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Add Olive Oil: While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth.
5. Season: Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Blend again until fully incorporated.
6. Adjust Consistency: If needed, adjust the thickness of the pesto by adding more olive oil or a little water.
7. Taste and Adjust: Taste your pesto and adjust seasoning as necessary before transferring to a container.
8. Store: Store in an airtight jar, and drizzle with a little olive oil on the surface to prevent browning.

This straightforward process makes it easy to prepare your Pumpkin Seed Pesto. Additionally, nothing compares to the freshness of homemade pesto!