What’s your favorite part about summer?
Mine is the abundance and availability of fresh delicious food!
I’m lucky to live in an area of the world where I have direct access to local farms and a large variety of fruit and vegetables. There is nothing quite like the taste of something picked right off the vine!
One of my favorite things to grow during the summer is herbs. Fresh herbs add so much flavor and nutrition to food. Herbs can be an easy way to limit sugar laden sauces and add more natural flavor to your foods.
I think it’s safe to say that basil has always been my favorite herb. I’m always looking for ways to include it into my recipes and even put it in drinks like my strawberry basil kombucha.
So, in the spirit of basil, I’ve created this delicious Walnut Pesto Pasta recipe!
This recipe is just packed with nutrition.
The trick is to preserve the healthy oils that are used in this recipe. Be careful not to burn the walnuts and be sure to use cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil. If you can find local and fresh garlic, basil and parsley, you’ll ensure the best nutritional content of your sauce!
Walnut Pesto Pasta
Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Serves: 3-4
Ingredients:
Walnut Pesto Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
- 2 cups fresh basil, packed
- 1 cup fresh parsley, packed
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 3-4 servings of whole grain, red lentil, or green pea pasta noodles
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Directions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain & set aside.
- Heat a small skillet over medium heat and add the walnuts. Toast until fragrant, about 5 minutes, tossing often to prevent from burning. Remove from heat.
- Add all ingredients into a high-speed blender or food processor and blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt & pepper.
- Add pesto sauce and cherry tomatoes to the pasta. Toss & serve topped with extra walnuts and parmesan cheese.
- This pasta is great served warm or cold.
Other uses for pesto sauce:
- On sandwiches or hamburgers
- As a salad dressing
- Tossed with eggs
- Marinade
I’d love to hear if you enjoyed this recipe!
Reply to this email or connect with me on Facebook to let me know 🙂
P.S. Have you joined the amazing community on Facebook yet?
You can find us at Simply Balanced Health talking health, sharing recipes, and supporting each other on our health journeys.
See you there!
Love & Fresh Food,
Dani