One of my favourite things to make is a walnut pesto scented with fresh parsley and mint.  Not only is it high in omega 3, it will go with just about anything.  I love it with pan roasted salmon or organic chicken, but you can also serve this as a dip with raw vegetables and it’s great folded through zucchini noodles served with organic chicken or smoked salmon.

What it’s good for

Walnut nut is high in omega 3. Eating omega 3 helps your body burn more fat, lowers insulin levels which can cause fat storage and Increases leptin levels in the body – a hormone which Helps suppress the appetite and help burn stored fat in the body. Parsley and mint is high in folate and minerals help to alkalinize the body, which can help improve bone density and growth hormone levels.  Cold pressed olive oil contains good monounsaturated fats that helps lower cholesterol and improve heart health.

Serves 8

Time it takes: 2 minutes

Ingredients

100g walnuts
½ cup tightly packed parsley leaves

½ cup tightly packed mint leaves or basil

1/4 cup cold pressed oil (olive oil )
juice and zest from 1 lemon
a little Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method

Combine the ingredients into the Vitamix container in the order listed and secure the lid.

Select variable 1.

Turn the machine on and quickly increase speed to variable 10 and then to high. Use the tamp provided to push the ingredients into the blades. You can have your pesto as smooth or as chunky as you like. Add a little water to your pesto for a smoother and thinner texture. 

Transfer to a bowl and use as required. Store covered in the fridge for up to one week.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with pan-roasted salmon, organic chicken breast, smoked salmon.  Fold through zucchini noodles or use as a dip with raw vegetable crudities.  Use as a healthy spread on whole grain sourdough in place of butter and enjoy with fresh sliced tomato, roast Mediterranean vegetables and baby spinach. Use as a pizza topping or fold through hot roasted sweet potato chunks.

Vitamix Tip

Use macadamia nuts in place of walnuts.