This dish became a fast favorite in our household. Meat-free and dairy-free, it is delicious, healthy, and super-easy to prepare. Ok, so I realize that I may have lost a few of you at the mention that this pasta is void of both meat and dairy. But, it is so savory and full of flavor that you won't even notice! My husband has been an avid carnivore his entire life - and a self-proclaimed picky eater - and he loves it! Combining several Tomato Basil Pesto recipes resulted in the creation of this one, so it is packed full of the best cancer-fighting, heart-healthy ingredients. Here's a breakdown of its many exceptional health benefits:
- Basil: promotes heart health, advances healthy skin, prevents several types of cancer, and boosts the immune system.
- Tomatoes: contain lycopene, vitamin C, folate, and potassium; can reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, and macular degeneration
- Walnuts: rich source of omega-3 fatty acids; contain a powerhouse of antioxidants, protein, fiber, magnesium, and phosphorous.
- Olive Oil: helps lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol, reduces blood pressure, decreases the risk of cancer and can help cognitive function
- Nutritional Yeast: full of vitamins (especially B-complex), contains essential amino acids, and is an excellent source of protein.
- Pine Nuts: high in vitamins E and K, manganese, zinc, iron, and magnesium, they provide essential nutrients to strengthen both the cardiovascular and immune systems.
For the recipe you'll need:
- 1 cup fresh organic basil leaves
- 7-8 sundried tomatoes, packed in olive oil
- 2 cloves of organic garlic
- 1/3 cup organic walnuts
- 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (Bragg's brand)
- 3-4 tbsp organic extra-virgin olive oil
- 1-2 tbsp water, as needed (or more olive oil, as needed)
- salt, to taste
- your desired amount of cooked pasta
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
In a food processor that is turned on, add the garlic cloves and chop finely. Now add the basil and continue to process until finely chopped. Pour in the olive oil, then add the sundried tomatoes and nutritional yeast. Combine until smooth. With the food processor still running, pulse in the walnuts. Add more olive oil or water to maintain a smooth consistency, if needed. Sprinkle in a dash of salt, if desired. Once combined, pour the pesto over your desired amount of cooked pasta and mix well. Toss in the toasted pine nuts and serve.
{Thanks for reading.}
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