Beet Pasta with Cilantro Pistachios

Another light meal using beets as the base. I spiralized two smaller sized beets, and it made quite a lot.

Beets contain many minerals, including sodium, magnesium, calcium, iron and phosperous. They are also considered a fiber food and contain vitamins A and C as well as niacin, which is a B vitamin.  Beets contain folic acid which is necessary for the production and maintenance of new cells. This is especially important for pregnant woman or anyone undergoing physical healing. Studies have also shown that beets guard against cancer, especially colon cancer, as well as protecting the body against heart disease. You can't "beet" that. I know, I know, but I couldn't resist.

I used balsamic vinegar, which isn't raw, but I love the flavor with beets. The vinegar and nutmeg give the sauce a nice sweetness while the parsley gives it a more savory flavor.  I also used dehydrated papaya seeds mixed into my pepper mill for a surprise flavor.

Note: if using the pistachios, make them a few hours ahead of the salad because they require some dehydrating time. 

Beet Pasta with Cilantro Pistachios:

2 medium beets spiralized
Juice of 1 lemon
1 T. olive oil
pinch of sea salt

Toss ingredients in a bowl and set aside while making dressing.

Dressing:

1 c. parsley
1/4 olive oil
2 T. aged balsamic vinegar
1 t. rosemary
1 T. lemon juice
1 T. nutritional yeast
1/2 t. grated nutmeg
sea salt to taste
pepper using dried out papaya seeds mixed in with peppercorns

Blend all ingredients in a small food processor.

Toss the pasta with the dressing.

Cilantro Pistachios:

1 c. pistachios
 juice of one lime
 1/2 c. cilantro
1 t. jalapenos
sea salt to taste

Blend the lime juice, cilantro and jalapeno in a high speed blender. Toss the nuts in the mixture. Lay nuts on a Teflex lined dehydrator sheet. Sprinkle the nuts with sea salt. Dehydrate at 105 degrees for at least two hours. 

Finishing touch: Sprinkle the pistachios over the pasta and serve. Makes enough for two.

You can also line the bowl with a few lettuce leaves prior to spooning the pasta into the bowls. This will make the dish a little more colorful.