Among heart-healthy foods, walnuts stand out for their ability to reduce cholesterol, lower inflammation, and improve blood vessel function. This simple pesto is delicious stirred through pasta or as a topping on baked fish or chicken.

Serves 6.

Ingredients:

• 60g walnuts

• 50g rocket

• 50g fresh parmesan, grated

• 60g olive oil

• 25ml water

• 1//2 clove garlic

Method:

1. Start by toasting the walnuts gently in a dry frying pan, shaking frequently to stop any burning. This step isn’t essential but adds extra depth of flavour.

2. Tip the walnuts, rocket, grated parmesan and garlic, olive oil and water into a small food processor. Blitz until you have a smooth consistency. You can use a pestle and mortar if you don’t have a processor.

3. Taste and add a little salt and pepper if needed, although the parmesan is salty and the rocket is quite peppery already.

4. Coat a baked fish fillet or chicken breast with the pesto or stir through wholewheat pasta and serve with a fresh crisp salad.

Nutritional Information: