Are you looking for a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional pesto? Look no further than our oil-free vegan basil pesto recipe! With nutritional yeast as a substitute for Parmesan and aquafaba as an oil substitute, this pesto is perfect for vegans and those with dietary restrictions. Plus, it’s versatile and can be made with various greens and herbs like spinach or cilantro. It’s also low in calories and fat, making it a great option for weight loss.
Key Takeaways:
- Our oil-free vegan basil pesto recipe is a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional pesto.
- It substitutes nutritional yeast for Parmesan and uses aquafaba as an oil substitute.
- The recipe is versatile and can be made with various greens and herbs like spinach and cilantro.
- It’s low in calories and fat, making it a great option for weight loss.
A Healthy Twist on Traditional Pesto
This simple and healthy pesto recipe substitutes nutritional yeast for Parmesan and uses aquafaba, the liquid from a can of chickpeas, as an oil substitute. Not only is this dairy-free basil pesto suitable for vegans, but it is also a healthier version of the traditional pesto.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Basil leaves | 2 cups |
| Pine nuts | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic cloves | 2 |
| Nutritional yeast | 1/4 cup |
| Lemon juice | 1/4 cup |
| Aquafaba | 1/4 cup |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
The use of nutritional yeast as a substitute for Parmesan in this healthy vegan pesto provides many benefits. Not only is nutritional yeast a great source of vitamins and minerals, but it also adds a cheesy flavor to the pesto. Aquafaba, the liquid from a can of chickpeas, serves as a perfect oil substitute in this dairy-free basil pesto recipe.
This healthy vegan pesto recipe is also versatile and can be made with various greens and herbs, such as spinach or cilantro. This allows for a variety of flavors and options when using the pesto in different dishes.
Versatile and Flavorful
The pesto is versatile and can be made with various greens and herbs, such as spinach or cilantro. This allows for a variety of flavors and options when using the pesto in different dishes. The vegan pesto sauce can add bright and fresh flavors to pasta, sandwiches, or even as a dip!
Basil pesto without oil has become a popular alternative to traditional pesto, especially for those with dietary restrictions. This healthy vegan pesto recipe uses nutritional yeast as a substitute for Parmesan and aquafaba as an oil substitute in the pesto recipe. Not only is it dairy-free, but it’s also low in calories and fat.
Low Calorie and Fat
It is low in calories and fat, making it a great option for those trying to lose weight. Unlike traditional pesto recipes that use oil and cheese, this oil-free vegan basil pesto recipe substitutes nutritional yeast for Parmesan and aquafaba for oil. Nutritional yeast is high in protein and fiber and contains many B vitamins, while aquafaba adds a creamy texture without the added calories and fat.
With only a few simple ingredients, this pesto is both healthy and flavorful. Serve it over pasta or as a dip for vegetables for a tasty and satisfying meal. It’s the perfect addition to any vegan or dairy-free diet and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.
Not only is this oil-free vegan basil pesto recipe a delicious alternative to traditional pesto, it’s also a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. By using only whole food, plant-based ingredients, this pesto is a nutritious addition to any meal. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought pesto again!
Easy-to-Find Ingredients
The recipe includes easy-to-find ingredients like basil, pine nuts, garlic, lemon, nutritional yeast, and olive oil. Most of these ingredients should be available in your local grocery store or farmer’s market.
Basil is a common herb that can be found in the fresh produce section of most stores. Pine nuts can be found in the baking aisle or nuts section. Garlic is usually sold by the head or in pre-peeled packages in the produce department. Lemons are often sold in the citrus section, and nutritional yeast can be found in the health food or baking aisle. Olive oil is a staple that can be found in most supermarkets.
When shopping for ingredients, make sure to read labels carefully to ensure that they are vegan and meet your dietary needs.
Delicious Serving Ideas
You can serve this tasty oil-free vegan basil pesto recipe in so many ways! One of the simplest and most popular ways to enjoy this pesto is over pasta. You can also use it on sandwiches as a dairy-free pesto sauce, adding a delicious and healthy twist to your lunch. Alternatively, try it as a dipping sauce for vegetables, bread, or crackers.
Using this pesto to make vegan pesto pasta is a great option for a quick and easy dinner. Simply cook your pasta according to the package instructions and toss it with the pesto. You can also add some extra veggies like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or spinach to make the dish even more nutritious.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze for up to six months. This will ensure that the pesto stays fresh and delicious for your next meal.
If you choose to freeze the pesto, make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before using. Alternatively, you can add the frozen pesto directly to your cooking for an easy and tasty addition.
When refrigerating or freezing the pesto, make sure to label the container with the date it was made. This will help you keep track of its freshness and avoid any waste.
Conclusion
Enjoy this delicious and nutritious vegan pesto in your favorite dishes! This oil-free vegan basil pesto recipe is easy to whip up at home and substituting nutritional yeast for Parmesan and using aquafaba as an oil substitute makes it a healthy twist on traditional pesto. Additionally, the recipe is versatile and can be made with various greens and herbs, such as spinach or cilantro. Being low in calories and fat, it’s a great option for those trying to lose weight. And the ingredients like basil, pine nuts, garlic, lemon, nutritional yeast, and olive oil are easy to find in most grocery stores. You can serve the pesto over pasta, on sandwiches, or as a dipping sauce. And if you have any leftover pesto, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze for up to six months. So go ahead and try this delicious and nutritious vegan pesto recipe in your favorite dishes!
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different herb or green instead of basil in the pesto?
A: Yes! This pesto recipe is versatile and can be made with various greens and herbs such as spinach or cilantro.
Q: How long can I store leftover pesto?
A: You can store any leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze it for up to six months.
Q: Can I use a different nut instead of pine nuts?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to substitute pine nuts with other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a different flavor in the pesto.
Q: Is this pesto recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
A: Yes, this oil-free vegan basil pesto recipe is dairy-free and suitable for vegans. It is a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional pesto.
Q: Where can I find nutritional yeast?
A: Nutritional yeast is commonly available in health food stores or the health food section of most grocery stores.