PASTA WITH RICOTTA, SWISS CHARD & WALNUTS

P1080210 Are there any foods that will make you feel happier? Biting into a large juice burger  and crispy double cooked chips might seem an instant solution to a bad mood, but actuually that will probably only make you feel worse (or have lingering guilt about the excessive calories you’ve just ingested). So, are there are natural anti-depressants? Yes, you’ll be pleased to discover, there are:

This recipe uses Swiss chard – lots of magnesium which increases energy levels, and walnuts – one of the richest dietary sources of serotonin, a chemical in your brain that helps create calm and happiness.

EASY RECIPE THAT SERVES 2

PASTA WITH RICOTTA, SWISS CHARD & WALNUTS

INGREDIENTS

Handful shelled walnut halves

1lb Swiss Chard (or spinach), roughly chopped

2 tbsp walnut oil

2 shallots, peeled and chopped

2 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped

200g pasta of your choice

Small tub of ricotta cheese

METHOD
Cook the pasta according to instructions on pack.
Put the Swiss chard or spinach in a colander and pour the pasta and cooking water over to wilt the greens. Leave to drain.
Mix the cheese, cream, walnut oil and walnuts with salt and lots of pepper, then stir through the hot pasta and greens.