The Green Goddess Pesto Pasta is an easy and delicious meal that offers more than just nutritional benefits. This dish is a testament to how healthy eating doesn't have to be bland or boring. Plus, it’s a perfect way to encourage children to eat more vegetables due to its fun and engaging presentation.
This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can easily modify it to suit dietary preferences, such as using gluten-free pasta or adding more vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes for extra flavour and nutrients. It's a perfect meal for those busy weeknights when you want something quick, healthy, and satisfying.
Incorporating Green Goddess Pesto Pasta into your diet is a delicious way to support your liver’s vital functions. Give your liver the care it deserves while enjoying a flavourful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients For 2 People:
- 200g whole wheat pasta
- 200g broccoli florets (including stems for zero waste)
- 200g fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic
- 60ml olive oil
- 30g grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- 50g pine nuts
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried chilli flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
- Cook Pasta: boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make Broccoli Pesto: steam broccoli (including stems) until tender. In a food processor, blend broccoli, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, chilli flakes, most of the pine nuts, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine: toss the cooked pasta with the broccoli pesto until well-coated.
- Finish the Dish: add the spinach on top of the pasta. Squeeze lemon juice over the dish and sprinkle with lemon zest.
- Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds on top for added crunch and nutrients.
- Optional Topping: sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavour.
- Serve: serve warm and enjoy your liver-friendly meal!
The Recipe for Liver Health:
- Whole Wheat Pasta: high in fibre, which aids digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. It also provides essential nutrients like iron and magnesium.
- Broccoli: rich in antioxidants and vitamins C, K, and A. Contains glucosinolates, which help stimulate detoxifying enzymes in the liver.
- Spinach: packed with antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and K. Supports liver health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Olive Oil: provides healthy fats that support bile production and reduce liver fat. Contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.
- Toasted Pine Nuts: rich in healthy fats, magnesium, and vitamin E, which support heart and liver health. They also provide a satisfying crunch and additional nutrients.
- Lemon: high in vitamin C, which boosts glutathione production for detoxification. Lemon juice also aids digestion and supports the immune system.
This recipe not only supports liver health but also emphasises sustainability by using the entire broccoli, reducing waste. It’s really a great idea for a chill weekday meal. Your liver goes through a lot - specifically, 1.5 quarts of blood every minute, so it’s crucial to support its function with nutrient-rich foods. This pasta, combined with natural supplements like Ashwagandha and TMG, can significantly enhance your liver's performance, helping it detoxify and maintain overall health. Enjoy a delicious meal that’s good for you and the planet!
