Nut-Free Vegan Pesto
Bright, fresh, and completely nut-free, this Nut-Free Vegan Pesto is a game-changer for pesto enthusiasts with dietary restrictions. Made with nutrient-packed basil and baby spinach, this quick and easy recipe swaps traditional nuts for sunflower seeds, making it both allergy-friendly and deliciously creamy. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy umami boost, while fresh garlic and zesty lemon juice elevate the vibrant flavors. Ready in just 10 minutes with no cooking required, this versatile pesto is perfect as a pasta sauce, sandwich spread, or veggie dip. Gluten-free, dairy-free, and bursting with wholesome ingredients, it’s a must-try for plant-based eaters and pesto lovers alike!
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Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup Baby spinach
- 0.5 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons Nutritional yeast
- 2 Garlic cloves
- 0.25 cup Sunflower seeds
- 0.5 teaspoon Sea salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Water (optional, to thin)
Directions
Step 1
Rinse and dry the fresh basil leaves and baby spinach.
Step 2
Peel the garlic cloves.
Step 3
In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the basil leaves, baby spinach, sunflower seeds, garlic cloves, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, sea salt, and ground black pepper.
Step 4
Pulse the mixture for a few seconds to break down the larger ingredients.
Step 5
With the blender or processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. If the pesto is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.
Step 6
Taste the pesto and adjust seasoning if necessary by adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice.
Step 7
Transfer the pesto to a clean jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Step 8
Use as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or a dip for vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | 302.1 grams (302.1g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1267 |
| Total Fat 130.30g | 167% |
| Saturated Fat 17.90g | 89% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 11.90g | |
| Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1203mg | 52% |
| Total Carbohydrate 21.50g | 8% |
| Dietary Fiber 9.40g | 34% |
| Total Sugars 1.70g | |
| Protein 18.50g | 37% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 119mg | 9% |
| Iron 5mg | 28% |
| Potassium 796mg | 17% |
Source of Calories