Luscious Vegan Basil Pesto
This Luscious Vegan Basil Pesto is a delightful twist on traditional pesto, combining the vibrant flavors of fresh basil with the creamy richness of pine nuts and the umami-packed nutritional yeast. Perfect for those who are vegan or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based options into their diet, this pesto is not only rich in flavor but also packed with nutrients. Use it to elevate your favorite pasta dishes, as a flavorful spread on sandwiches, or as a delicious dip for fresh veggies. Quick and easy to make, this pesto is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
pine nuts
1 cup (toasted)
garlic cloves
2 (peeled)
fresh basil leaves
3 cups (washed and dried)
nutritional yeast
1/2 cup (none)
fine sea salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
black pepper
1/8 teaspoon (freshly ground)
extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by toasting the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until lightly golden and aromatic. This enhances their flavor and adds depth to your pesto.
2
In a food processor, combine the toasted pine nuts and garlic cloves. Pulse until finely chopped.
3
Add the fresh basil leaves, nutritional yeast, fine sea salt, and pepper to the food processor. Pulse to combine the ingredients.
4
While the food processor is running, gradually pour in the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You can adjust the consistency by adding more olive oil as needed.
5
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Use immediately or transfer to an airtight container.
6
If storing, drizzle a little extra olive oil on top to prevent browning and refrigerate. Enjoy your pesto over whole wheat pasta, gnocchi, or as a dip for fresh veggies.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Luscious Vegan Basil Pesto?
It is a plant-based twist on traditional pesto made with fresh basil, pine nuts, and nutritional yeast for a creamy, umami-packed flavor.
Is this pesto recipe dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is completely dairy-free and vegan, using nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese.
What are the main ingredients in this vegan pesto?
The main ingredients include toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, fresh basil leaves, nutritional yeast, fine sea salt, black pepper, and extra virgin olive oil.
How many garlic cloves are used?
This recipe calls for 2 peeled garlic cloves.
How do I toast the pine nuts?
Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden and aromatic.
What is the role of nutritional yeast in this recipe?
Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy, savory umami flavor that replaces the traditional parmesan cheese found in non-vegan pesto.
How much basil is needed?
You will need 3 cups of fresh basil leaves, washed and dried.
What type of oil should I use?
The recipe recommends using 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and texture.
Can I use a food processor for this recipe?
Yes, a food processor is used to chop the nuts and garlic and to emulsify the oil into the herbs.
How do I achieve a smooth and creamy consistency?
Gradually pour in the extra virgin olive oil while the food processor is running until the mixture reaches your desired smoothness.
What can I serve with this vegan basil pesto?
It is excellent over whole wheat pasta, gnocchi, as a sandwich spread, or as a dip for fresh vegetables.
How should I store leftover pesto?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How do I prevent the pesto from browning in storage?
Drizzle a little extra olive oil on top of the pesto before sealing the container to prevent oxidation and browning.
Is this pesto gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredients list, this pesto is naturally gluten-free.
How long does it take to prepare?
The recipe is quick and easy, with the primary time spent toasting nuts for 3-5 minutes and pulsing ingredients in a processor.
Can I adjust the seasoning?
Yes, the recipe encourages you to taste and adjust the sea salt and black pepper after the initial blending.
How much nutritional yeast is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of nutritional yeast.
What kind of salt is best?
The recipe specifies 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt.
Do I need to wash the basil?
Yes, the basil should be washed and dried before being added to the food processor.
What if the pesto is too thick?
You can adjust the consistency by adding more olive oil as needed while blending.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is described as a healthy, nutrient-packed option featuring heart-healthy fats from olive oil and nuts.
Can I use this as a dip?
Absolutely, it works perfectly as a delicious dip for fresh vegetables.
What equipment do I need?
You will need a skillet for toasting the nuts and a food processor for blending the pesto.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
No, this recipe contains no added sugar.
Can I make this nut-free?
This specific recipe uses 1 cup of pine nuts; for a nut-free version, you would need to substitute them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin.
Is the black pepper ground?
The recipe calls for 1/8 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
Can I use this on sandwiches?
Yes, it makes a very flavorful spread for various types of sandwiches.
Does this pesto contain cholesterol?
As a plant-based recipe, it is naturally cholesterol-free.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include vegan, pesto, basil, sauce, pasta, nutritional yeast, dairy-free, herbs, and healthy.
Is the garlic pre-cooked?
No, the recipe uses 2 raw, peeled garlic cloves which are pulsed with the toasted nuts.