Description
This vibrant and flavorful Vegan Pesto recipe is a perfect dairy-free alternative to traditional pesto, made with fresh basil, toasted pine nuts or pepitas, and a touch of lemon juice. It's naturally gluten-free and bursting with fresh, herby goodness. Ideal for pasta, pizza, or as a delicious spread on crusty bread, this pesto is quick to prepare in just 5 minutes using a food processor.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- ½ cup toasted pine nuts or pepitas
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for desired consistency
Optional Add-ins
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor
- 2 teaspoons capers for a briny taste
- 2 oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for extra umami
Instructions
- Combine Nuts and Seasonings: In a food processor, combine the toasted pine nuts or pepitas, fresh lemon juice, garlic clove, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped to develop a flavorful base.
- Add Basil: Add the fresh basil leaves to the food processor and pulse a few times until the basil is evenly chopped and incorporated with the nut mixture.
- Incorporate Olive Oil: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil. Continue pulsing until the mixture reaches a creamy pesto consistency.
- Add Optional Flavor Boosters: For added flavor variations, incorporate 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste, 2 teaspoons capers for briny notes, or 2 oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for rich umami flavor. Briefly pulse to combine well with the pesto base.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste the pesto and adjust seasoning or consistency by adding more olive oil, salt, or optional ingredients as desired. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- This pesto is naturally gluten-free and vegan.
- To toast pine nuts or pepitas, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- For a smoother pesto, add more olive oil gradually while blending.
- Store leftover pesto in an airtight container and drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top to preserve freshness.
- Serve pesto over pasta, spread on sandwiches, or use as a dip for vegetables.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
