Healthy Basil Pesto

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

1. Prepare all the ingredients as listed.
2. 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.
3. In a food processor, combine the basil, nutritional yeast, pinenuts, and garlic. Pulse a few times until chopped.
4. 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.
5. Season and Brighten: Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Pulse a few more times to combine.
6. 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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