Cheese-Free Pesto: A Delicious Vegan Alternative

Making pesto without cheese might seem like a challenge, but it's not only possible, it's also simple and delicious! This versatile herb sauce can be an excellent addition to pasta, sandwiches, or served as a flavorful dip. Here, we will guide you through the process of creating a vegan version of pesto that will have you craving it even without cheese.

Ingredients for Vegan Pesto

2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed) 1/2 cup nuts: pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds work well (you can also use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version) 2-3 cloves garlic: adjust to taste 1/2 cup olive oil 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice: to taste Salt and pepper: to taste

Instructions for Vegan Pesto

Prepare the Ingredients: Wash the basil leaves and peel the garlic cloves. Blend the Dry Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, nuts, and garlic. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped. Add Olive Oil: While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Continue processing until the mixture is well combined and smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally if needed. Season: Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the flavor to your liking. Store: Transfer the pesto to a jar or an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for about a week. You can also freeze it in ice cube trays for longer storage.

Tips for Vegan Pesto

Nut Alternatives: If you prefer a nut-free version, use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.

Herb Variations: Mix in other herbs like parsley or spinach for a different flavor profile.

Texture: For a chunkier pesto, pulse the ingredients less and leave some texture.

Enjoy your cheese-free pesto on pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip! You can also experiment with adding roasted garlic for an even richer flavor. Simply roast 2 garlic bulbs at 375°F for 30 minutes wrapped in parchment foil, coated with a teaspoon of olive oil.

Tips: Add more salt than you would have if there was cheese, as most of the salt in pesto is from the cheese. Choose a meatier nut like pecans, walnuts, or almonds for a creamier texture.

Conclusion: When you remove one of the main ingredients of pesto, what you get is something else, not pesto. So, while you can still make a tasty sauce with the remaining ingredients, it's best to call it what it is. In this case, vegan pesto is the perfect description. Enjoy your delicious, cheese-free pesto and get creative with your recipes!