Spinach Asparagus Pesto (Pantry and Fridge Sweep)

INGREDIENTS

• fresh ground pepper
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to your taste
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut in half
• pinches hot red pepper flakes (optional)
• 10 ounces fresh spinach
• juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup almonds, toasted
• 1 small package fresh basil
• 4 garlic cloves
• few tablespoons water, to thin if necessary