Dairy-Free Classic Basil Pesto Sauce
Bright, fresh, and completely dairy-free, this Classic Basil Pesto Sauce is the perfect vegan twist on the traditional favorite! Made with fragrant basil leaves, toasty pine nuts, and a touch of nutritional yeast for that signature cheesy flavor, this recipe delivers a creamy, rich pesto in just 10 minutes. A zesty splash of lemon juice enhances the fresh, vibrant taste, while extra virgin olive oil ensures a silky texture. Whether you're tossing it with pasta, spreading it on sandwiches, or using it as a dip, this dairy-free pesto is a versatile, plant-based staple that’s bursting with flavor. Plus, it's quick, easy, and can be stored for up to a week—perfect for meal prep or last-minute gourmet meals!
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Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
- 0.5 cups Pine nuts
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves
- 3 tablespoons Nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
- 0.5 cups Extra virgin olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoons Salt
- 0.25 teaspoons Black pepper
Directions
Step 1
Begin by gently rinsing the fresh basil leaves under cold water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Step 2
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until they are golden brown, approximately 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Step 3
Peel the garlic cloves and set them aside to use in the next step.
Step 4
In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, and nutritional yeast. Pulse a few times until the ingredients are coarsely chopped.
Step 5
Add the lemon juice to the mixture and continue pulsing while slowly drizzling the olive oil into the processor or blender. This helps emulsify the pesto into a smooth and creamy consistency.
Step 6
Season with salt and black pepper, then blend once more to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 7
Transfer the pesto into a clean jar or airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Step 8
Serve your Dairy-Free Classic Basil Pesto Sauce as a condiment for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip with veggies.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (277.1g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1508.6 |
| Total Fat 158.5g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 19.3g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 23.0g | |
| Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1198.4mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 21.6g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 7.3g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 3.2g | |
| Protein 20.3g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 81.3mg | 0% |
| Iron 6.6mg | 0% |
| Potassium 905.1mg | 0% |
Source of Calories