BENEFITS:

Pine nuts are good for the digestive system, kidney energy, and also help relieve coughing with mucus.

PREPARATION

Wash the nuts clean, about 1/4 to 1/2 lb. Stir-fry them in a pan until they become a light brown. Remove from heat. When cool, eat them like eating peanuts as a snack.

PESTO

For about 6 servings of pasta

• 3 packed cups fresh basil leaves (removed from stems)
• 2 large cloves of fresh garlic
• 1/2 cup pine nuts
• 3/4 cup packed fresh chopped parsley
• 3/4 cup fresh grated parmesan
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• Salt to taste

PREPARATION PESTO

Combine everything in a blender on low, then medium speed. Thoroughly work everything into a smooth paste. Toss with hot, drained pasta or spoon onto hot gnocchi.

Pesto is a potent green paste and is also rich in protein (nuts and cheese).

From The Moosewood Cookbook by Mollie Katzen.