What’s in it

· 2 cups basil

· 1/3 cup pine nuts

· 3 cloves garlic

· ½ cup extra virgin olive oil

· ½ cup parmesan cheese

· ½ t sea salt

· Black pepper to taste

Optional – if you have any fresh parsley add a handful along with the basil. You can also substitute walnuts for pine nuts, and 1 t of nutritional yeast will add to the taste as well as the nutrient profile.

How to Make it

1. Combine basil leaves, pine nuts and garlic in a food processor and process until very finely minced.

2. With the machine running, slowly dribble in the oil and process until the mixture is smooth.

3. Add the cheese and process very briefly, just long enough to combine.

4. Store in refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze,

WHY IT’S HEALTHY

Basil contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties, benefits the stomach during digestion and can provide immediate relief from gas, stomach cramps, and nausea. Basil is a rich source of magnesium and is also highly antibacterial and antiviral. Pine nuts are packed with a ton of essential vitamins and minerals (E, K, zinc, magnesium), and, and pine nuts are associated with weight loss and healthy weight management the healthy fat found in pine nuts actually helps improve satiety (the feeling of being full). Research consistently shows a reduction in LDL cholesterol levels when pine nuts are introduced into the diet. Garlic has strong antibiotic, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties, is high in vitamin C and B-6 as well as the minerals selenium, calcium, iron and copper.