My Homemade Pesto Recipe – A Quick, Energising Meal for Busy Moms

Hey, fellow busy mom! If you’re in perimenopause, juggling work, kids and those hormonal rollercoasters (yours and your kids!) you know how tough it can be to get a healthy, family-friendly meal on the table. I’m Nicola, a single mom and health coach, and I’m sharing my go-to homemade pesto recipe that’s saved my sanity on countless chaotic evenings. This vibrant, nutrient-packed sauce is ready in 5 minutes, loved by my daughter Sofia (even on her pickiest days), and perfect for boosting your energy and mood. Here’s how to whip it up tonight!

Why Pesto? Why Now?

As a perimenopausal mom, you need meals that fight fatigue, support hormone balance, and don’t add stress to your plate. Pesto is loaded with healthy fats (from olive oil and nuts) to stabilise blood sugar and nourish your brain, plus antioxidants (from basil) to combat inflammation. It’s versatile—toss it with pasta, spread it on toast, or use it as a veggie dip—and it’s a hit with kids, making dinnertime less of a battle. Growing up with a dad who helped found Pizza Express, I’ve always loved bold, fresh flavours and this pesto brings that joy to our table.

My Story Behind the Pesto

When Sofia was little, her silent reflux made me obsess over foods that were gentle yet nutritious. I started making pesto because it’s quick, customisable, and sneaks in greens without her noticing (score!). Now, at 10, she calls it “green magic” and loves helping me blitz it in the blender. This recipe is our weeknight hero, especially on days when I’m wiped out from work and perimenopause brain fog. It’s proof you can feed your family well without spending hours in the kitchen. One of my favourite ways to customise it is to add some crème fraiche or cream and cooked chicken and stir through pasta – quick easy and Sofia loves it.

Click here for my Pesto recipe

Perimenopause Power-Ups

·         Basil: Rich in magnesium, it supports mood and sleep—key for hormonal balance.

·         Olive Oil: Healthy fats reduce inflammation and keep you satisfied longer.

·         Nuts: Provide protein and zinc, boosting energy and combating brain fog.

Kid-Friendly Tips

·         Let kids press the blender button.

·         Serve with fun pasta shapes to win them over.

·         If they’re veggie-shy, start with more spinach and less basil.

Make It Your Own

·         No Nuts? Use sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.

·         Dairy-Free? Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavour without dairy.

·         Batch Prep: Double the recipe and freeze half for a no-cook meal next week.

Why Moms Love It

This pesto is my secret weapon for nights when I’m too tired to think. It’s fast, forgiving (no exact measuring needed!), and feels like a hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s a way to nourish yourself and your family without guilt or stress which is something every perimenopausal mom deserves.

Try It Tonight!

Ready to bring some “green magic” to your table? Whip up this pesto and tag me on Instagram or X with #MomEnergyReset—I’d love to see your creations! Want more quick, healthy recipes? Grab my free 5-Minute Energy Reset Guide for tips to feel vibrant, even on your busiest days.

Let’s make healthy eating simple and delicious, together!

Nicola xx