Healthy Basil Pesto
Prep
10 mins
Cook Time
0 mins
Servings
6-8
Say hello to your new favorite healthy pesto sauce! Our healthy basil pesto brings you all the delicious flavors you love with a nutritious twist. Instead of traditional Parmesan, we’re using nutritional yeast, a plant-based, superfood that adds a cheesy flavor while packing in B-vitamins and protein.
Fresh, fragrant basil is the star here, loaded with antioxidants to help fight inflammation and boost immunity. We also cut down on the oil and use a little water, keeping the sauce light but still creamy and flavorful. A splash of lemon juice not only brightens up the flavor but also provides a dose of vitamin C to support your immune system.
This healthy pesto is vegan friendly and full of nutrients. Spread it on sandwiches, mix it into pasta, or drizzle it over roasted veggies. No matter how you use it, you're in for a guilt-free, nutrient-packed meal that doesn’t sacrifice on taste. Because eating healthy should never be boring! Ready in just minutes—this basil pesto is your new kitchen staple!
XO,
Bobbielee
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (may swap for cashews or walnuts)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (To reduce calories, may swap for 1/4 cup olive oil and 1/4 cup water)
- Juice of 1/2 a lemon (adds brightness and vitamin C)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
Directions
Prepare all the ingredients as listed.
Process the pesto: In a food processor, combine the basil, nutritional yeast, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse a few times until everything is finely chopped.
In a food processor, combine the basil, nutritional yeast, pinenuts, and garlic. Pulse a few times until chopped.
Add Olive Oil and Water: Slowly drizzle in the olive oil and water while the food processor is running, blending until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more water as needed.
Season and Brighten: Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Pulse a few more times to combine.
Store: Transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to a week or freeze in portions for later.
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