Pumpkin Seed Arugula Pesto Sauce Vegan
Brighten up your meals with this vibrant and nutrient-packed Vegan Pumpkin Seed Arugula Pesto Sauce! This creamy, plant-based twist on classic pesto swaps traditional pine nuts for toasted pumpkin seeds, adding a nutty depth and a protein boost. Fresh arugula and basil deliver a peppery, herbaceous flavor, while nutritional yeast lends a cheesy, umami note—completely dairy-free. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice ties it all together with zingy brightness. Ready in just 10 minutes with no cooking required, this versatile sauce is perfect for pasta, sandwiches, roasted veggies, or as a zesty dip. Simple, wholesome, and delicious, it’s a must-try for anyone seeking a quick and healthful recipe!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 0.5 cups Pumpkin seeds (raw, unsalted)
- 2 cups Arugula (fresh)
- 0.5 cups Fresh basil leaves
- 2 Garlic cloves
- 3 tablespoons Nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 0.25 cups Extra virgin olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoons Salt
- 0.25 teaspoons Black pepper (freshly ground)
- 2 tablespoons Water (adjust as needed)
Instructions
Toast the pumpkin seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are lightly golden and aromatic. Remove from heat and let cool.
In a food processor, combine the toasted pumpkin seeds, arugula, basil, garlic cloves, nutritional yeast, and salt. Pulse until the mixture is coarsely chopped.
Add the lemon juice and olive oil to the food processor. Blend the ingredients while gradually adding water, one tablespoon at a time, until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. Scrape down the sides of the food processor as needed.
Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or black pepper, if desired.
Transfer the pesto to a jar or bowl. Use immediately, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
875 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 82.5 g | 106% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.1 g | 66% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1220 mg | 53% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 22.6 g | 8% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.8 g | 24% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.6 g | ||
| Protein | 25.2 g | 50% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 138 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 7.1 mg | 39% | |
| Potassium | 1030 mg | 22% | |
*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.
