You can use any nut you like, or even seeds, such as roasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds, for the pesto. But if you do use pistachios, I highly recommend the amazing Aegina pistachios from my online shop. A word about mushrooms and eating for longevity: Mushrooms have always been a part of the longevity diet of Ikaria and are generally a much-beloved food in Greece. Foraging for them provides natural exercise and reason to socialize. But eating them offers immeasurable goodness! Studies show that consuming mushrooms as a regular part of your diet can help relieve hypertension, improve gut health, fight off cancer, and stave off diabetes. Mushrooms are one of the few plant-based sources of Vitamin D, which is important in keeping Covid and other illnesses at bay. The reduce inflammation and help lower cholesterol. They also feel meaty, so eating mushrooms is one way to help you reduce the consumption of red meat in your diet.