Blog | Taste the Cancer-Fighting Power of Brazil Nuts - NFCR

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Taste the Cancer-Fighting Power of Brazil Nuts

NFCR-sponsored researchers have been investigating the links between nutrition and cancer prevention for decades. The latest research from Dr. Helmut Sies focuses specifically on the role of selenium, a nutrient that may play a critical role in reducing the risk of certain cancers. So what can we eat to add selenium to our diets? Brazil nuts.

Brazil nuts contain the richest source of natural selenium. They also make a great pesto.  Add a dollop to some roasted broccoli, whole-grain pasta or salmon and voila! You now have a delicious, nutritious, cancer-fighting meal for dinner tonight. Try it…. And let us know what you think. Post your comments below.

Brazil-Nut Pesto
(from Food & Wine Magazine)

Ingredients:

1/2 cup coarsely chopped flat-leaf parsley
1/4 cup Brazil nuts, coarsely chopped
2 Tbsp water
1 Tbsp chopped tarragon
1 large garlic clove, chopped
1/2 tsp finely grated lemon zest
5 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
3 Tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground pepper

HOW TO MAKE THIS RECIPE:

In a mini food processor, combine the parsley with the Brazil nuts, water, tarragon, garlic and lemon zest and pulse to a coarse paste. Add 3 tablespoons of the olive oil and the Parmesan and process to a slightly smooth paste.  Season with salt and pepper.

MAKE AHEAD OF TIME:

This pesto can be refrigerated overnight. Bring to room temperature before using.