Pistachio Arugula Basil Pesto (Oil-Free & Dairy-Free)
Servings: 4 servings
Calories:
Vibrant, zesty, and nutrient-packed, this Oil-Free & Dairy-Free Pistachio Arugula Pesto brings bold flavor and creamy texture without the need for oil or cheese. The peppery bite of fresh arugula pairs perfectly with the natural buttery richness of pistachios, while zesty lemon juice and garlic add brightness and depth. Nutritional yeast gives it that classic “cheesy” flavor, making this pesto a versatile, wholesome addition to your plant-based kitchen. Perfect for tossing with pasta, drizzling over grain bowls, spreading on sandwiches or flatbreads, or using as a flavorful dip—this vibrant pesto is a delicious way to elevate any dish while keeping it light and nutrient-dense.
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Equipment
- High speed Blender
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh arugula packed (4 oz. or 100g) or spinach
- ¼ cup fresh basil (.5 oz or 15g)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or lemon balsamic vinegar California Balsamic vinegar adjust to taste
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor
- ¼ cup water or aquafaba add more as needed for consistency
- ½ cup shelled pistachios preferably unsalted (2.5 oz or 75g) or hazelnuts
- ¼ tsp garlic granules or powder or confit garlic
- ¼ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- For deeper flavor, lightly toast pistachios in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring often. Let cool before blending.
- In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine arugula, pistachios, garlic, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Blend while slowly adding water until the pesto reaches your desired consistency—smooth but still a bit textured.
- Add more lemon juice for brightness, salt for flavor, or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Toss with pasta, drizzle over roasted veggies, spread on sandwiches, or use as a dip. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- To keep the pesto vibrant green, blanch the arugula for 10 seconds in boiling water, then plunge into ice water before blending.