Roasted Artichoke Pesto

So for my first recipe I wanted something simple and versatile . I've been obsessed with artichokes lately ever since I tried them at a restaurant a few weeks ago. This recipes works on pasta, pizza, sandwiches or wraps. Later on I'll post a few recipes using this pesto. Enjoy!

Roasted Artichoke Pesto

Ingredients

¾ cup extra virgin olive oil

1/3 cup lemon juice

4 large cloves garlic, halved

1 teaspoon thyme

1 bay leaf

2 packages frozen artichokes

¾ cup fresh basil

salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat oven to 325

Heat on stovetop ½ cup olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, salt and pepper. Add the frozen artichokes and mix to coat. Over medium heat bring to a boil. Transfer to oven proof pan and cover with aluminum foil, transfer to the over, and cook until the artichokes are browned in spots, about 35-45 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool.

Roasted Artichokes

Remove bay leaf. Put the cooled artichokes with the liquid into food processor or blender. Add remaining ¼ cup olive oil and basil leaves process until smooth. 

Finished Pesto