Avocado Basil Pesto Recipe Vegan Made Easy and Delicious

Avocado basil pesto is a vibrant, creamy, and utterly delicious twist on the traditional pesto sauce. Perfect for anyone following a vegan lifestyle or simply looking to add more plant-based options to their meals, this recipe swaps out cheese for the rich, buttery texture of ripe avocado.

The fresh basil leaves bring an aromatic punch, while garlic, nuts, and lemon juice balance the flavors beautifully. Whether you’re tossing it with pasta, spreading it on toast, or using it as a dip, this avocado basil pesto is incredibly versatile and bursting with freshness.

Not only is it quick to whip up, but it also offers a nutritious boost thanks to the healthy fats in avocado and the antioxidants in basil. This vegan pesto recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence that feels luxurious yet wholesome.

Read on to discover why this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This avocado basil pesto recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy and fast to prepare, requiring just a handful of fresh ingredients and a food processor or blender.

Unlike traditional pesto, it uses avocado instead of cheese, making it completely vegan and dairy-free.

The creamy texture of avocado adds a luscious smoothness that coats pasta or veggies perfectly, while the fresh basil and garlic provide a bright, herbaceous flavor. Plus, it’s nutrient-dense, packed with heart-healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.

You’ll appreciate how adaptable it is, working beautifully as a sauce, a spread, or a dip.

Lastly, this recipe stores well in the fridge for a few days and can be frozen for longer, making it a convenient and tasty pantry staple.

Ingredients

• 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a budget-friendly alternative)
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1-2 tablespoons nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor

Equipment

• Food processor or high-speed blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Bowl for serving or storage container

Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients: Peel and pit the avocado, wash the basil leaves thoroughly, and peel the garlic cloves.
2. Toast the nuts (optional but recommended): In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts or walnuts for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. This step enhances the flavor and adds a subtle crunch.
3. Add basil, nuts, and garlic to the processor: In your food processor or blender, combine the fresh basil leaves, toasted nuts, and garlic cloves. Pulse a few times to start breaking down the ingredients.
4. Add avocado and lemon juice: Scoop the avocado flesh into the processor along with the fresh lemon juice. The lemon juice not only brightens the flavor but also helps prevent the avocado from browning.
5. Drizzle in olive oil: With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil to help emulsify and create a creamy texture.
6. Season and blend: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If using, add nutritional yeast for a cheesy depth. Blend everything until smooth and creamy. If the pesto is too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of water or more olive oil to reach your desired consistency.
7. Taste and adjust: Stop and taste the pesto, adjusting salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed for your perfect flavor balance.
8. Serve or store: Use immediately or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Tips & Variations

“To keep your avocado basil pesto bright green, squeeze extra lemon juice on top before storing and cover tightly with plastic wrap to minimize air contact.”

• Nut-free version: Substitute nuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for those with allergies.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small piece of jalapeño for some heat.
• Herb twists: Mix in fresh parsley or cilantro for a unique flavor profile.
• Extra creaminess: Add a splash of plant-based milk or more olive oil to make it even silkier.
• Make it cheesy: Nutritional yeast is optional but highly recommended to add that classic pesto tanginess.
• Storage tip: Freeze pesto in ice cube trays for convenient single servings to defrost as needed.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This avocado basil pesto is incredibly versatile and can elevate many dishes. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Classic pasta sauce: Toss with your favorite cooked pasta for a quick and flavorful meal.
• Sandwich spread: Use as a creamy, herbaceous spread on vegan sandwiches or wraps.
• Dip for veggies or crackers: Serve as a fresh dip for raw vegetables or crunchy crackers at your next gathering.
• Salad dressing: Thin it out with a little water or more lemon juice and olive oil, then drizzle over greens.
• Pizza topping: Swirl on homemade or store-bought pizza crust before baking for a unique twist.
• Grain bowls: Drizzle over quinoa, rice, or couscous bowls for added flavor and creaminess.

If you enjoy this avocado basil pesto, you might also love exploring other easy vegan recipes such as our Half Runner Beans Recipe or the delightful Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe. For a sweet treat, check out the Lazy Cookie Cake Recipe to satisfy your dessert cravings.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, a health-conscious food lover, or someone simply looking to try a fresh take on a classic sauce, this avocado basil pesto recipe is a must-have in your culinary repertoire.

It’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish your body and delight your taste buds.

The creamy avocado lends a luxurious texture, while the basil and garlic create a vibrant, fresh taste. Plus, its versatility means you can enjoy it in countless ways—on pasta, as a dip, or even spread on warm bread.

Embrace this green goodness and elevate your meals with a twist that’s healthy, delicious, and completely vegan-friendly!

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