Garlic sauce with walnuts and green parsley

Garlic sauce with walnuts and fresh parsley - A rustic delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Who doesn't love the intense and aromatic taste of garlic sauce? This is a simple yet incredibly flavorful recipe that transforms a humble ingredient into a delicacy worthy of the most festive tables. With a mix of fragrant garlic, crunchy walnuts, and fresh green parsley, this sauce adds a burst of flavor to any meat, barbecue, or fish dish. The origins of garlic sauce are deeply rooted in various culinary traditions where garlic has been used not only for its strong flavor but also for its nutritional benefits.

Ingredients:
- 1 head of garlic
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 100 ml olive oil (or sunflower oil if you prefer a more neutral taste)
- 3-4 pieces of walnut meat (preferably fresh walnuts)
- Chopped fresh parsley, to taste
- Water (a few tablespoons, to adjust the consistency)

Step 1: Preparing the garlic
Start by peeling the head of garlic and separating the cloves. Use a knife to cut the tip off each clove to facilitate crushing. Using a garlic press or a mortar, crush the garlic until it becomes a fine paste. This is the stage where the intense aroma of garlic will start to release, so make sure to protect your hands, and if you are sensitive to garlic, wear gloves.

Step 2: Mixing with salt
Add the salt over the crushed garlic and mix well. The salt will not only enhance the flavors but also help in forming a homogeneous paste. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix the garlic with the salt, making circular movements.

Step 3: Incorporating the oil
This is the magic moment! Gradually add the oil as if you were making mayonnaise. Start with a few drops and mix vigorously. As the oil incorporates, you will notice that the mixture becomes creamier. Continue to add oil until you reach the desired consistency. I recommend achieving a texture similar to that of a cream, which can be easily spread.

Step 4: Adding the walnuts
What makes this recipe truly special is the addition of walnut meat. Make sure the walnuts are well crushed but not too fine to maintain the texture. You can use a food processor or chop them by hand if you prefer. Incorporate the walnuts into the garlic and oil mixture, stirring gently to avoid breaking the texture too much.

Step 5: Finishing with parsley
Add the chopped fresh parsley, which will bring an extra freshness and color to your sauce. Mix well to evenly distribute each ingredient. If desired, you can adjust the amount of parsley according to your preferences.

Step 6: Adjusting the consistency
If you feel that the sauce is too thick, add a few tablespoons of water to achieve a more suitable consistency. Mix again until everything is well combined.

Serving and combinations
Garlic sauce with walnuts and parsley is delicious alongside meat cuts, grilled fish, or roasted vegetables. It is also perfect to be served as a dip for fresh bread or raw vegetables. A personal recommendation would be to serve it with a crispy green salad, which will balance the intense flavors of the sauce.

Nutritional benefits
Garlic is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, having a positive impact on the immune system. Walnuts, on the other hand, are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and fiber. This combination makes your garlic sauce not only a delicious condiment but also a healthy option for your meals.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use a different type of nuts?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of nuts, such as hazelnuts or almonds, but the taste will be different.

2. How can I store the sauce?
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for 3-4 days.

3. Is the sauce spicy?
The intensity of the sauce depends on the amount of garlic used. If you prefer a milder taste, try reducing the amount of garlic.

Possible variations
For a spicier sauce, you can add a pinch of chili powder or even a few drops of Tabasco sauce. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as dill or coriander, to give a personal twist to the recipe.

This garlic sauce with walnuts and fresh parsley is not just a simple condiment; it's an invitation to explore flavors and textures, a true feast for the senses. Don't forget to share this delicacy with friends and family to turn every meal into a celebration!