Since I adore basil so much, and since basil is healthy for you, and since I want to make healthy foods that have high nutrient value, I came up with this dip a few months ago, this summer, back in June, and have been testing it out on a few friends, neighbors, and family ever since.  They loved it too!  So here it is!  

I wanted to create a dip that was super healthy, had probiotics, and deep leafy greens, had nuts and seeds, and tasted delicious, and was, of course, super simple and easy to make.  I hope you like it too.  

What's nice about this dip is that it is light and delicate, and flavorful, yet it has protein, fiber, veggies, calcium, and probiotics which are good for your gut health.  At the last nutrition conference I went to this past year, it was all about gut health, and the gut microbiome.  Probiotics help your gut health.  What's not to love?  Here's to your good health!  

Basil Macadamia Nut Dip
(serves 4)

Ingredients:
• 3 bunches fresh basil
• 1 cup raw macadamia nuts
• 1 lemon  (3 Tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice)
• 3 Tablespoons tahini
• 3 Tablespoons miso
• 1/2 cup water
• Sea salt
• Black pepper

1.  In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup mac nuts, 3 bunches fresh basil leaves (stems removed), 3 tablespoons miso, 3 tablespoons tahini, 3 tablespoons lemon juice, 1/2 cup water.  
2.  Add to blender.  Blend.  
3.  Add sea salt and black pepper to taste.  Blend.
4.  Add lemon juice, salt, pepper, to taste.  Blend and adjust flavors to taste.
5.  Serve surrounded with freshly cut carrots and top small bowl of basil dip with a fresh basil leaf for presentation.  

Please note:  This dip can last 1-3 days in the fridge with a tightly fitted lid container.  

Options:
• Can replace basil, with parsley, cilantro, dill, or mint... (although the flavors will be different!)
• Can replace raw macadamia nuts with raw pine nuts, cashews, or walnuts...(again, the flavors will be different!)
• Can serve basil dip with celery, radish, red pepper, or other fresh, chopped veggies!  
• Can serve basil dip with rice crackers, corn chips, taro chips, seed crackers!
• Bring basil dip to a party, or as an appetizer for dinner with friends!
• This dip makes a great light lunch, or snack at home.  You can also bring this dip to work, or carry it with you for a take-out lunch anywhere! Pack dip and veggies in portable bowls and store in a cool, insulated lunch tote and you are good to go!  

Enjoy!

october 2, 2015 • recipe 9
original recipe by Carol Giardino • all rights reserved.