www. citycottage. co. uk
Going Nuts!
From pecans to pistachios, walnuts to hazelnuts, Diana Peacock is crazy for nuts...
I absolutely adore nuts, not simply because they are so tasty, but also because they can give any dish a lovely crunch. They are also very good for you, containing many vitamins and minerals and also being source of protein. They keep you fuller for longer, so are a satisfying addition to a meal. When nuts are roasted for a few minutes in the oven their flavour is enhanced and they seem to become doubly delicious.
Here are some of my favourite recipes that contain the very useful nut. First of all, we have two simple main courses that are cooked in minutes and have become two of our family favourites...
Walnut Pesto Sauce
Serve this with your favourite pasta, I like it with spaghetti or tagliatelle.
Serves 4
• 50g shelled walnuts
• 3 garlic cloves, peeled
• 6 tbsp of olive oil
• Large handful fresh parsley
• 3 tbsp chives
• 60g Parmesan or Gran Padano cheese, shaved or roughly grated
• Salt and black pepper to taste,( remember the cheese is salty)
1. Place the walnuts and garlic on a baking tray and sprinkle with a little of the olive oil. Place in a preheated oven set to 200C / gas mark 6 and roast for 10 minutes.
2. Meanwhile chop the parsley and chives, place in a food processor.
3. When the walnuts and garlic are roasted chop roughly and add to the herbs.
4. Add the rest of the olive oil and most of the cheese, save some to sprinkle over the top before serving.
5. Whizz all the ingredients together for about 30 seconds or until the pesto is well mixed and smooth.
6. Cook your chosen pasta and drain well. Place back in the pan and pour over the walnut pesto.
7. Mix well until the pasta is well coated with the sauce and serve in warm bowls with a sprinkling of cheese and salt and black pepper to taste.
Illustration: Firecatcher