Roasted Garlic Basil Paste

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. 2
   Rub garlic heads with olive oil, and wrap with aluminum foil.
3. 3
   Bake until garlic cloves are very tender when pierced with a knife, about 50 minutes.
4. 4
   Allow heads to cool, then squeeze softened garlic from cloves into a bowl; there should be 1 cup.
5. 5
   Using a mortar and pestle (do not use a food processor), mash basil with 1/2 teaspoon salt until it is a paste.
6. 6
   Add roasted garlic one tablespoon at a time, and mash until fully blended.
7. 7
   Season with lemon juice, and add more salt if desired.
8. 8
   Spread on grilled meats or fish, or use as a sandwich spread.