Basil bonanza

Pecci's Pesto Sauce

Three years ago, Arlington native Steven Pecci began a pesto business with a recipe he learned from the men in his family. Now Pecci's Pesto Sauce, made in North Andover, is a bestseller in many Boston-area markets. It contains only the finest ingredients: extra-virgin olive oil, fresh basil, fresh garlic, pine nuts, and a wee bit of cream cheese. Spread it on focaccia, pizza, or pasta -- or mix it into salads. Any way you serve it, the freshness comes through. An eight-ounce container costs under $7. Find it in the refrigerated sections of better markets, such as Bread & Circus, Savenor's, DeLuca's Market, Fresh Pond Market, Barsamian's, and Marty's Liquors.

-- Nancy Kalajian