Lightened uP- Basil Walnut Pesto
My pesto is kicked up a notch with walnuts adding a nice nutty flavor to the pesto and lightened up significantly by substituting chicken broth for all the oil. This pesto kicks the same flavorful punch you'd expect from it's indulgent counterpart for significantly less calories. If you are vegetarian, substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth. Prep time: 5 minutes Servings: 8 servings (each serving = 2 tbsp) INGREDIENTS: 3 tbsp walnuts, chopped 2 cups fresh basil leaves 1/4 cup grated parmesan 1/2 cup chicken broth 2.5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 2-3 cloves garlic Salt INSTRUCTIONS: Combine all ingredients in a high-powered blender or food processor and combine until blended for a smoother, creamier texture. For a thicker, more textured pesto, reserve 1 tbsp of walnuts. Blend everything EXCEPT for the 1 tbsp of walnuts. Add walnuts and pulse for a few seconds and you'll have a pesto that is a little less smooth and a little more textured (my favorite way to enjoy!) NUTRITION: (per 2 tbsp serving) 75 calories, 7.3 g fat, 1.3 g carbohydrate, 2.4 g protein, 11.5% DV vitamin A |