Tofu Spinach Pesto

Elevate your plant-based meals with this vibrant and creamy Tofu Spinach Pesto, a wholesome twist on a classic favorite. This dairy-free pesto features a protein-packed base of extra-firm tofu, blended with fresh spinach, fragrant basil, and toasted pine nuts for a rich, nutty depth. Nutritional yeast adds a subtle cheesiness, while garlic and a splash of zesty lemon juice bring bright, bold flavors. Perfectly smooth and irresistibly versatile, this quick 15-minute recipe is ideal as a pasta sauce, sandwich spread, or veggie dip. Whether you're looking for a vegan pesto option or a healthy, high-protein condiment, this tofu spinach pesto is your answer to delicious, guilt-free indulgence.

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:0 mins

Total Time:15 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 200 grams Extra-firm tofu
• 100 grams Fresh spinach leaves
• 50 grams Fresh basil leaves
• 1 whole Garlic clove
• 30 grams Pine nuts
• 60 milliliters Olive oil
• 15 grams Nutritional yeast
• 15 milliliters Lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 30 milliliters Water (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top (like a skillet) for 10 minutes.

Step 2

Meanwhile, rinse the spinach and basil leaves thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with a towel.

Step 3

Lightly toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.

Step 4

Peel the garlic clove and roughly chop it for easier blending.

Step 5

Once the tofu is pressed, crumble it into smaller chunks for easier processing.

Step 6

In a food processor or high-powered blender, add the spinach, basil, tofu, garlic, toasted pine nuts, olive oil, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.

Step 7

Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the processor as needed. If the pesto is too thick, gradually add water 1 tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 8

Taste the pesto and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference.

Step 9

Transfer the tofu spinach pesto to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.

Step 10

Serve the pesto with your favorite cooked pasta, as a spread for sandwiches, or as a dip for veggies.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	507.4 grams (507.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1115

Total Fat 94.10g	121%
Saturated Fat 12.70g	64%
Polyunsaturated Fat 15.60g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2488mg	108%
Total Carbohydrate 26.20g	10%
Dietary Fiber 13.50g	48%
Total Sugars 3.00g
Protein 49.70g	99%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1562mg	120%
Iron 14mg	76%
Potassium 1752mg	37%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 73.6%

Protein: 17.3%

Carbs: 9.1%