Hearts of Palm, Pesto & Tomato Salad!

1. **Prepare the Basil Pesto:** In a food processor, combine the basil, garlic, and pine nuts. Process until smooth. While the food processor is running, slowly add the olive oil through the top opening. Once incorporated, add the grated cheese, lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper, then pulse again until combined. Taste and adjust seasoning (more sea salt or lemon) if needed.
2. **Store Pesto (Optional):** Store the pesto in a sealed, glass container in the fridge. For best preservation, top it with a thin layer of olive oil before sealing to create an air seal and prevent drying. Shake or stir before using.
3. **Prepare Salad Ingredients:** Slice the hearts of palm into circles and halve the cherry tomatoes. Chop a handful of fresh basil leaves.
4. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced hearts of palm, fresh basil leaves, lemon juice, sumac, and sea salt. Add a desired amount of the freshly prepared basil pesto and mix everything thoroughly. Enjoy every bite of this easy salad!