High Protein Spinach Pesto
Elevate your meals with this vibrant and nutrient-packed High Protein Spinach Pesto, a healthy twist on a classic favorite. Loaded with fresh spinach and basil, this vegan-friendly pesto is blended with protein-rich hemp seeds, creamy cashews, and savory nutritional yeast for a velvety texture and bold flavor. Brightened with fresh lemon juice and garlic, and balanced with a drizzle of olive oil, this pesto is as versatile as it is delicious—perfect for tossing with pasta, drizzling over roasted veggies, or spreading on sandwiches. With just 10 minutes of prep time and no cooking required, this quick and wholesome recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights or meal prep. Plus, it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with plant-based protein, making it a perfect fit for a wide range of dietary preferences.
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Ingredients
- 4 cups Fresh spinach
- 1 cup Fresh basil leaves
- 0.5 cup Shelled hemp seeds
- 0.25 cup Nutritional yeast
- 0.5 cup Raw cashews
- 2 cloves Garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice
- 0.25 cup Olive oil
- 0.25 cup Water
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
Directions
Step 1
In a blender or food processor, combine fresh spinach, basil leaves, hemp seeds, nutritional yeast, and raw cashews.
Step 2
Peel and roughly chop the garlic cloves, then add them to the blender.
Step 3
Add fresh lemon juice, olive oil, water, salt, and black pepper to the blender with the other ingredients.
Step 4
Blend the mixture on high speed until it forms a smooth and creamy pesto. If the mixture is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of water at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 5
Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
Step 6
Transfer the spinach pesto to a storage container or serve immediately with pasta, vegetables, as a spread for sandwiches, or as a dip.
Step 7
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | 471.6 grams (471.6g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1550 |
| Total Fat 139.20g | 178% |
| Saturated Fat 18.70g | 94% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 5.30g | |
| Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1290mg | 56% |
| Total Carbohydrate 39.70g | 14% |
| Dietary Fiber 11.40g | 41% |
| Total Sugars 6.20g | |
| Protein 54.80g | 110% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 261mg | 20% |
| Iron 19mg | 104% |
| Potassium 2021mg | 43% |
Source of Calories