Did you know that walnuts contain the most antioxidants of all nuts. Antioxidants help protect the body for the cellular damage that contributes to breast cancer, other cancers, and heart disease. Walnuts are also the richest in omega-3 fatty acids, which help fight inflammation. Plus they are a great way to get healthy unsaturated fats, which are usually found in fish.
I thought this pasta was perfect to highlight the walnuts, and get a healthy meal. It is meat free, but still filling from the nuts. You could use any veggies here. Saute them in heart healthy olive oil, and serve over whole grain pasta. A little bit of arugula mixed in would be wonderful. Arugula is a rich source of certain phytochemicals that have been shown to fight cancer-causing elements in the body. Arugula is also a great source of folic acid and Vitamins A, C and K. It is one of the best vegetable sources of Vitamin K, which provides a boost for bone and brain health. So this really could be a powerhouse of a meal.
I made this for lunch one day, and I loved it. I am honestly not a huge fan of walnuts, but sauteed in the olive oil, with the pasta, and the zucchini it was just perfect. A little crunch, and little chewy, salty, savory, and just good! I think even my meat loving husband would be a fan of this one. As soon as I get more walnuts, I will be making it for him.
Toasted Walnut Pasta
2 oz whole grain pasta
1 cup chopped veggies
3 Tbls olive oil
1 clove garlic, grated
1/3 cup walnuts, chopped
Salt and Pepper to taste
Cook the pasta according to the package directions.
In a large skillet heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the nuts and begin to lightly toast. After a few minutes add in the veggies and the garlic, saute until veggies are crisp tender, about 5 minutes. Salt and Pepper to tastes. Toss with the cooked and drained pasta.
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