Heart-Healthy Vegan Pesto
Elevate your meals with this Heart-Healthy Vegan Pesto, a deliciously dairy-free twist on the classic recipe that's as nutritious as it is flavorful. Crafted with fresh basil, baby spinach, and creamy raw cashews, this vibrant pesto is rich in plant-based nutrients and healthy fats, making it perfect for those seeking a nutritious alternative. Nutritional yeast packs a punch of cheesy umami flavor, while garlic and a splash of lemon juice add zesty flair to every spoonful. Simple to make in under 10 minutes, this vegan pesto is not only oil-free but also features vegetable broth for an ultra-light texture. Use it as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or a dip for veggies—this heart-healthy recipe is as versatile as it is satisfying. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just looking to incorporate wholesome dishes into your diet, this flavorful pesto is a must-have addition to your recipe repertoire!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup Baby spinach
- 1 cup Raw cashews
- 3 tablespoons Nutritional yeast
- 2 Garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
- 0.5 teaspoons Salt
- 0.25 cups Vegetable broth or water
Instructions
Start by soaking the raw cashews in hot water for 15–20 minutes or until softened. Alternatively, you can soak them in cold water overnight.
Drain and rinse the soaked cashews thoroughly.
In a food processor or blender, add the fresh basil leaves, baby spinach, soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic cloves, lemon juice, and salt.
Blend the ingredients while slowly adding the vegetable broth or water a little at a time. This will ensure you achieve your desired consistency.
Stop to scrape down the sides of the processor as needed to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lemon juice, if desired.
Use immediately as a sauce, dip, or topping, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
727 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 49.6 g | 64% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.8 g | 44% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1466 mg | 64% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 49.8 g | 18% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.0 g | 32% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.9 g | ||
| Protein | 32.4 g | 65% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 134 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 11.2 mg | 62% | |
| Potassium | 1281 mg | 27% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
