- Extra virgin olive oil (1/2 cup) [keyword: extra virgin olive oil]
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon) [keyword: lemon juice]
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
*Note: Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor. This quick vegan pesto recipe is perfect for those looking to enhance their dishes with a burst of freshness and nutrition in just 5 minutes!
Advertisement
Steps
### Quick & Vegan Pesto: A 5-Minute Recipe Guide
#### **Introduction to Vegan Pesto**
Vegan pesto is a versatile sauce that can transform any dish into a vibrant and flavorful delight. This quick recipe will guide you through making a fresh, vegan pesto in just 5 minutes.
#### **Ingredients for Vegan Pesto**
- **2 cups fresh basil leaves** (use more if you like a thicker consistency)
- **1/4 cup nutritional yeast** (for that cheesy flavor without dairy)
- **3 cloves garlic**, peeled
- **1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts** (optional, use any nut you have on hand)
- **3 tablespoons lemon juice**
- **2 tablespoons olive oil**
- **Salt and pepper to taste**
#### **Step-by-Step Instructions**
1. **Prepare the Ingredients:**
- Wash the basil leaves thoroughly under cold running water.
- Peel the garlic cloves.
2. **Combine Ingredients in a Food Processor or Blender:**
- Place the basil leaves, peeled garlic cloves, and pine nuts (or walnuts) into your food processor or blender.
- Pulse until roughly chopped but not fully blended yet.
3. **Add Liquid Elements:**
- Pour in the lemon juice and olive oil while the machine is running.
- Continue processing until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency. If needed, add a few more drops of olive oil to achieve your desired thickness.
4. **Season with Salt and Pepper:**
- Taste the pesto and adjust seasoning by adding salt and pepper as necessary.
5. **Add Nutritional Yeast for Tidiness:**
- Sprinkle in the nutritional yeast and pulse again until fully incorporated. This step adds a creamy, cheesy flavor without dairy.
6. **Serve or Store:**
- Transfer the pesto to an airtight container.
- Use immediately on pasta, vegetables, or sandwiches; or store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
#### **Tips and Variations**
- **Substitute Ingredients:** You can swap out pine nuts with other nuts like almonds or cashews if preferred. For a nut-free version, simply skip the nuts entirely.
- **Keep It Fresh:** Always use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor.
- **Storage Tips:** Store the pesto in an air-tight container and keep it refrigerated to maintain freshness.
#### **Conclusion**
This quick vegan pesto recipe is perfect for those looking to add a burst of flavor to their meals without spending too much time in the kitchen. Enjoy its versatility by using it on pasta, sandwiches, or as a spread on crackers—get creative!