Who doesn´t like a tasty nutty and zingy pesto to go with your pasta, toasts, pizzas or even soups! If you are looking for an alternative vegan or paleo version (dairy free) for the original cheese pesto, here I share with you this delicious and creamy even greener pesto!
A great alternative to make a dairy free pesto is using nuts instead of cheese. You can use pine nuts, cashews, pistachios and combine with the green leaves you like, like basil, parsley or kale.
Two secrets I want to share with you in this recipe:
Secret 1: Use avocado to make a smoothie pesto, you will reduce the amount of oil by using the avocado and nuts natural oils. Secret 2: The secret to get the nutty flavour out of the nuts is to toast them for few minutes before making the pesto!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups basil leaves
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 Tbsp lemon juice
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 3 Tbsp pistachios
- 3 Tbsp cashews
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
How to make the creamiest vegan Avocado & Pistachio Pesto
In a dry pan, toast the nuts (pistachios and cashews) for a couple of minutes. We want them slightly gold, just a bit.
Use a blender or food processor and add the nuts, garlic, avocado, basil and salt. Whiz together. Once is well mixed add the lemon juice and olive oil. Blend for a couple of seconds until well combined.
Now is the time to add more salt, oil ( I would recommend water for a lower calorie version) or even nuts to adapt to your taste!
Ideas to enjoy this pesto:
- Season your pizza
- Over roasted veggies
- Mix with a green soup
- Spread on toast or sandwich
I hope you enjoy!
XO Bea
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