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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