Almond Pesto - Fit Foodie style!

I love pesto, it's nutty, garlicky, basil-y, rich and swimming in olive oil. Hence the problem. Olive oil, while one of the best oils to choose, is not a low calorie food friend. I made up this recipe with half the amount of olive oil and substituted almonds for pine nuts because not only did I have them on hand, but they are much less expensive.

ALMOND BASIL PESTO

1/4 cup almonds (salted and roasted)

2 cups packed fresh basil

3 tbsp. grated Parmesan, Romano & Pecorino blend (20 calories for 1 tbsp.)

2 cloves of garlic

2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

3 tbsp. water

1 tbsp. lemon juice

Makes 9 servings - 1 tbsp each - 53 calories

Toss everything in a food processor and blend well. If freezing, leave out the cheese and drizzle the top with a little more olive oil to prevent browning. Add cheese after thawing when ready to use. 

Serve over pasta noodles, toss with grilled vegetables, on top of salads, sandwiches or meat. 

Tossed with 3 oz. Whole Wheat pasta and 3 oz. roasted chicken with 2 tablespoons of pesto

Only 360 calories!