Few meals are more satisfying than a plate full of fresh pasta. While there are many sauces, meats, or vegetables you can add to your pasta to give it a full, rich flavor, few can compare to pesto sauce. Not only does pesto sauce provide a unique, delicious taste, but it also offers several health benefits. Here is a closer look at how pesto’s ingredients improve your health.

Top 4 Healthy Pesto Ingredients 

1. Olive Oil 

Olive oil is a great source of monounsaturated fats. Unlike trans and saturated fats, monounsaturated fats are actually good for your body, helping to maintain blood sugar levels and reduce cholesterol. This oil also contains antioxidants, which are known to battle the effects of aging.

2. Pine Nuts

The pine nuts used in the pesto sauce on fresh pasta are also a great source of fatty acids such as omega-3. Pine nuts are also a healthy source of protein. This protein will provide bone support and increase metabolism. 

3. Garlic 

Garlic, another primary ingredient in pesto sauce, has also been found to improve heart health in several key ways. In addition to lowering cholesterol, garlic consumption has been found to help stabilize blood pressure and prevent hardening of the arteries. Some studies have even linked garlic to a decrease in the risk of prostate, brain, and lung cancer.

4. Basil

As the primary ingredient in pesto sauce, basil does more than just providing your fresh pasta with vibrant, green color. Basil is a great source of phytochemicals like vicenin. These phytochemicals destroy harmful free radicals in the body, helping fight against cancer and heart disease. Basil is also a great source of calcium, vitamin A, iron, vitamin C, and omega-3 fatty acids. 

For fresh pasta and other favorites, you can’t go wrong with Paul’s Pasta Shop in Groton, CT. Serving handmade pasta since 1988, this award-winning restaurant is sure to satisfy with its family-friendly atmosphere, affordable prices, and great Italian food. To learn more about their menu and catering options, visit them online or call (860) 445-5276.