I LOVE pesto! Its so good and its actually quite easy to make if you have a blender or food processor. Once you taste your own fresh, homemade pesto you'll never want to buy it from the store again. Traditionally, pesto is often made with pine nuts which lend a sharp, pleasant piney flavor. The downside of pine nuts is that they are very expensive. Almonds provide a cheaper and equally delicious option. Another great thing about almonds is they are high in healthy Omega 3 fats and Vitamin E (good for your heart, hair and skin). They also contain a good amount of tryptophan which helps to elevate your mood. For a twist, substitute sundried tomatoes for the fresh basil.
Almond Pesto
Ingredients
4 cups loosely packed basil leaves (about two bunches)
OR 1 cup sundried tomatoes (if they are the dried variety, soak them briefly in warm water to soften them, then drain)
1/2 to 2/3 cup (depending on how cheesy you want it) fresh grated Asiago cheese
6 cloves garlic
1/2 cup raw almonds
1/2 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Place basil (or drained sundried tomatoes), cheese, garlic and almonds in a food processor. Pulse until coarsely chopped. With processor running, pour in olive oil in a thin stream, and process until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer to small bowl, and cover with plastic wrap, pressing plastic wrap directly onto surface of pesto; chill. (Can be made a few days ahead).
Basil - Basil is an excellent source of Vitamin K which helps with blood clotting.
Basil is anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and full of anti-oxidents which help prevent cells from free radical damage. It is also a very good source of Vitamin A, iron and calcium.
