Super Greens Spirulina Pesto

This pesto is next level nutrient dense! I've just re-discovered SPIRULINA while trying to find nutritious foods to sneak into my 1 year olds diet ...He is loving spirulina in his fruit smoothies & this is yet another way to get this superfood into him :) 

Spirulina is a natural 'algae' powder that is rich in chlorophyll, and like plants, gets its energy from the sun. Chlorophyll helps remove toxins from the blood & boosts the immune system. About 60% of spirulina’s dry weight is protein, which is essential for growth and cell regeneration. It is a good replacement for fatty and cholesterol-rich meat and dairy products in one’s diet. Every 10 grams of spirulina can supply up to 70% of the minimum daily requirements for iron, and about three to four times of minimum daily requirements for vitamins A (in the form of beta carotene), B complex, D,and K. By itself, it does not contain vitamin C, but it helps maintain this vitamin’s potency. As well, spirulina contains other other nutrients such as manganese, zinc, copper, selenium & chromium.

Spirulina is also incredibly high in calcium with over 25 times the calcium in milk, making it excellent for children, elderly & during pregnancy. Spirulina is rich in gamma-linolenic acid or GLA, a compound found in breast milk that helps develop healthier babies.

Another health benefit of spirulina is that it stimulates beneficial flora like lactobacillus and bifidobacteria in your digestive tract to promote healthy digestion and proper bowel function. It acts as a natural cleanser by eliminating mercury and other deadly toxins commonly ingested by the body.

Spirulina also increases stamina and immunity levels in athletes, and its high protein content helps build muscle mass. At the same time, it can curb hunger that may develop during the most demanding training routines. Thus, it indirectly acts as an effective way to maintain an athlete’s ideal body weight.

Recipe:

1.5 cups cashews

2.5 cups fresh basil 

1 cup parsley

2 cups broccoli

2 cloves garlic

1 tsp SPIRULINA

Juice of 2 lemons

1/4 - 3/4 cup olive oil , depends on how oily you want it

salt & pepper to taste

*** Blend all ingredients in blender ***

Toss with favorite pasta also good as a spread in sandwiches.