Tongues of Fire Beans with Tomato-Basil Pesto Print

Instructions

1. Sort beans and soak overnight in bowl using 3 times as much water as beans. The next morning rinse beans with cold water. Put beans in heavy saucepan, cover with two inches of water and bring to a slow boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered until tender (35-45 minutes). Drain beans.
2. To prepare pesto: Mash garlic and 1/2 tsp. salt in a bowl with back of wooden spoon until smooth. Chop basil in food processor and gradually add the oil to make a coarse puree. Add garlic, cheese and tomato paste and blend until quickly combined. Taste and add salt, if necessary. Top each serving of beans with pesto and add a side of fresh steamed grains, if desired.