Low Fat Classic Basil Pesto
Revitalize your meals with this light and flavorful Low Fat Classic Basil Pesto, a heart-healthy twist on the traditional recipe. Featuring a vibrant blend of fresh basil and baby spinach, this creamy pesto incorporates low-fat Greek yogurt for a luscious texture without the excess oil. Toasted pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and a zesty hint of lemon juice add depth and balance, while a quick prep time of just 10 minutes makes this an easy go-to for busy weeknights. Perfect for tossing with pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or drizzling over roasted veggies, this guilt-free pesto keeps all the bold, herby flavors you love while cutting back on fats and calories. A must-try for anyone seeking a lighter yet utterly delicious homemade pesto!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup Baby spinach leaves
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 pieces Garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons Pine nuts, toasted
- 2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil
- 0.25 cup Low-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
Instructions
Begin by rinsing the basil and baby spinach leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or residue. Shake off the excess water or pat dry gently with a kitchen towel.
In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, baby spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, and toasted pine nuts. Pulse the mixture until it becomes a coarse paste.
Slowly add the extra virgin olive oil while continuing to pulse the food processor. This should create a smoother consistency.
Add the low-fat Greek yogurt and lemon juice to the mixture. Pulse again until everything is well incorporated, and the pesto achieves a creamy texture.
Season the pesto with salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Transfer the pesto to an airtight container. For best results, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week and stir before using.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
530 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 47.6 g | 61% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.8 g | 49% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 27 mg | 9% | |
| Sodium | 1558 mg | 68% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 15.2 g | 6% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.4 g | 12% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.9 g | ||
| Protein | 17.7 g | 35% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.6 mcg | 3% | |
| Calcium | 360 mg | 28% | |
| Iron | 3.1 mg | 17% | |
| Potassium | 466 mg | 10% | |
*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.
