Capture spring freshness with this perfect & easy to prepare pesto. A lightness distinguishes this pesto from others. The crispy, vivacious texture of fennel bulb is tempered by a cool quality the calms the mind and increases clarity. Pumpkin seeds impart a nutty flavor, without the heaviness of pine nuts. Vinegar adds the zing instead of cheese.

Revitalizing

Spring offers tender young greens that revitalize your energy, called prana in Ayurveda. From asparagus, to fennel bulb, cilantro, parsley, and spirulina, tender spring greens are packed with chlorophyll, the substance that makes plants green, waking you up out of winter hibernation. The bright green color and fresh taste of fennel bulb is your cue to its revitalizating properties.

Reduce Spring Puffiness

Your body purges fats and toxins in spring which can cause blood congestion and water retention. On warm spring days, you might even feel that your face and hands are puffy with the extra water weight, which can also cause problems with blood pressure. Pumpkin seeds, fennel, and cilantro are all diuretics which help to purge excess spring water weight. As a diuretic fennel purges excess spring water weight and detoxifies the blood. Fennel has been shown to protect the liver of experimental animals from chemical toxicity. Their mild bitter taste directly decongests blood.

Cool & Refreshing

Although temperatures mid-spring may still be mild to cool, you might notice a warmth in your chest, even on cold days. Somehow, cool weather in mid spring does not chill you to the bone. That's because your body is prepared for cold after the long winter. It is unprepared for heat. Warm spring days make your core too hot. Fortunately, fennel and cilantro are naturally cooling (pitta reducing). You'll feel these cooling properties not only on the tongue, but directly as a freshness in the skin & eyes. Your mind will also feel more relaxed.