Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
Combine the basil, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil in a blender and blend to a puree. Add the cheese, salt and pepper, and blend again.
Cook the pasta in the boiling, salted water until al dente, about 3 minutes. Drain and transfer to a large bowl. Add the pesto and toss.
Taste for salt and pepper, and add a drizzle of oil, add in diced ham or sausage and chopped parsley and mix well