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Easy Vegan Pesto Recipe

Easy Vegan Pesto Recipe - Affordable Food Ideas

Today, I want to share my approach to a delightful staple that has become my go-to in the kitchen: easy vegan pesto. 
This vibrant green sauce is not just a feast for the eyes. It's packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a fantastic addition to any meal.
I vividly remember the first time I stumbled upon basil-infused pesto in a charming Italian restaurant. The fresh taste captured my heart. 
However, as a registered dietitian passionate about healthy eating, I wanted to create my own version that is simple, quick, and suitable for those on a plant-based diet. Now, making vegan pesto is something I whip up on a busy weekday almost without thinking.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 16
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 38
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3-6 Tbsp filtered water
  • 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2-3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
  • 3 Tbsp pine nuts or chopped walnuts
  • 3 large garlic cloves peeled
  • 2 cups tightly packed fresh basil leaves
  • 3-4 Tbsp nutritional yeast flakes
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt or Himalayan pink salt

Method
 

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
  1. Start by assembling all your ingredients. You want them all within arm’s reach. This will streamline your process and keep things moving swiftly.
Step 2: Prep the Garlic
  1. Take your garlic cloves and peel them. You can either leave them whole or halved; I prefer cutting them to help them blend more easily.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients in the Blender
  1. In a blender or food processor, add the basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts (or walnuts), nutritional yeast, and sea salt.
Step 4: Add the Liquid Ingredients
  1. Pour in the lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil. This will provide essential moisture and help in blending everything into a smooth mixture.
Step 5: Blend Until Smooth
  1. Blend the ingredients together on high speed until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. If your pesto seems too thick, gradually add filtered water until it reaches your desired thickness. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything mixes evenly.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
  1. This is a crucial step. Taste your pesto and adjust the seasoning. Need more salt? A splash more lemon juice? This is your chance to make it just right!
Step 7: Store or Serve
  1. Once blended to perfection, you can use the pesto right away or store it in an airtight container in the fridge. If you’re saving it for later, drizzling a thin layer of olive oil on top can help prevent browning.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Basil: While dried herbs are great, fresh basil truly makes a difference in flavor.
  • Experiment with Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pine nuts, try cashews or almonds for a different flavor profile.
  • Add Green Veggies: Mix in spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost.
  • Adjust Texture: If you prefer a chunkier pesto, pulse the ingredients less vigorously.
  • Serve at Room Temperature: Pesto tastes best when it’s not straight from the fridge. Let it sit out for a bit before serving.