Homemade Pesto Pasta

The Benefits

Basil: This sweet peppery herb may help fight inflammation, promote digestion and supports the detoxification of the body.

Copper - Vitamin A & K - Manganese - Iron

Garlic: This delicious addition to any dish has antibiotic properties which may help boost immunity and prevent the onset of dementia.

Manganese - Vitamins B6 & C - Selenium

Walnuts: This hearty nut is filled with good polyunsaturated fats that may help lower cholesterol levels and aid in promoting brain health.

Omega-3 - Fiber - Copper - Manganese - Vitamin B6

Olive Oil: This green oil is filled with healthy-fats and antioxidants that may improve heart health, lower the risk of stroke, fight inflammation, help prevent cancer and boost brain health.

Vitamins A, E, K - Iron - Calcium - Magnesium

The Recipe

Ingredients

10 - 12 oz. pasta of choice (penne, spaghetti, bow tie)

water

1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan

Pesto Sauce: 4 cloves of garlic, finely minced

handful of walnuts, soaked in warm water

2 cups fresh basil

half a lemon, juiced

pinch of salt & pepper

1/2 cup parmesan, freshly grated

2/3 cup olive oil

Instructions

1) Prepare the pasta! Cook pasta in salted water per packaging instruction.

2) Create the delicious pesto: To a food processor or blender add garlic, soaked walnuts, basil, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Pulse until combined. Add parmesan and pulse once more. Slowly add olive oil until blended smooth.

3) Drain pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of starchy pasta water. Put pasta, reserved water and prepared pesto back into pot. Stir to coat pasta evenly. Incorporate parmesan into tossed pasta.

4) Serve and enjoy! Grate on some extra parmesan and sprinkle on toasted pine nuts if you're feeling ambitious.