Logical Pesto

Logical Pesto

This flexible recipe mixes and matches ingredients based on what you have on hand and delivers balanced flavor and texture that tastes great by itself or added to other recipes.

Elements: Protein + Aromatic + Greens + Savory + Acid + Fat + Spice

Base Ingredients:

• 1 cup protein (cashews, walnuts, sunflower seeds, almonds, hemp seeds)

• 2 - 6 garlic cloves

• 1 cup packed fresh herbs (basil, cilantro, parsley, green onions)

Savory Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon savory (nutritional yeast, miso paste, fermented tofu)

• 1 tablespoon acid (lemon juice, lime juice, apple cider vinegar)

• ½ cup oil (olive oil, avocado oil, walnut oil)

• Spices to taste (salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, jalapeno)

Steps:

1. In a food processor, blend the three base ingredients (nuts/seeds, garlic, herbs).

2. Add savory ingredients to taste.

3. Use immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week.

4. Add a splash of olive oil to seal the top every couple days if needed to extend freshness.

Uses:

• Pesto Pasta: combine this pesto, with the white sauce base

• Continental Breakfast: a good avocado substitute, with cream cheese on bagels or toast

• Bruschetta: add a couple heaping spoonfuls to fresh/canned diced tomatoes, plus olive oil

Self-Preservation:

• Heart: Olive oil and nuts/seeds provide monounsaturated fats and omega-3s that reduce inflammation, improve cholesterol levels, and support heart health.

• Cells: Herbs and greens provide antioxidants and polyphenols that protect against oxidative stress and cellular damage.

• Immunity: Garlic and aromatics provide sulfur compounds like allicin that enhance immune function and offer antimicrobial benefits.

• Digestion: Lemon juice and acids provide enzymes and vitamin C that aid digestion, improve nutrient absorption, and support gut health.

• Metabolism: Nuts, seeds, and fermented ingredients provide B vitamins and probiotics that support energy production and metabolic function.