Vegan Lemon Pesto Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 lemons (juice and zest)
  • 40g pine nuts
  • 50g nutritional yeast
  • 1 small bunch of parsley
  • Fresh basil to taste
  • 1/2 garlic clove
  • Extra virgin olive oil as needed
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 80g spaghetti (optional, for pasta)

Instructions:

  1. Juice and Zest Lemons:
    • Squeeze the juice from the lemons into a blender.
    • Grate the lemon zest and add it to the blender.
  2. Toast Pine Nuts:
    • Toast the pine nuts in a pan over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and fragrant. This step enhances their flavor. Add them to the blender.
  3. Add Remaining Ingredients:
    • Add the nutritional yeast, parsley, basil, garlic, a generous drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper to the blender.
  4. Blend:
    • Blend all the ingredients until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides of the blender a few times to ensure everything is well mixed.
  5. Store:
    • Transfer the lemon pesto to a sterilized jar. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Serving Suggestions:

  • For Pasta:
    • Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain, reserving some pasta cooking water.
    • Toss the cooked spaghetti with a few spoonfuls of lemon pesto, using the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
  • As a Spread:
    • Use the lemon pesto as a spread for bruschetta or sandwiches.

Tips:

  • Lemon Variety: For an authentic taste, use Procida lemons or any organic, untreated lemons.
  • Nuts: Substitute pine nuts with toasted almonds for a different flavor.
  • Cheese Substitute: Nutritional yeast is used in place of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy, nutty flavor.
  • Storage: The pesto can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in a jar covered with a thin layer of olive oil.

Explanation of Vegan Adaptation:

  1. Nutritional Yeast:
    • Replaces Parmesan cheese. Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast that provides a cheesy, nutty flavor, making it a great substitute in vegan recipes.
  2. Olive Oil:
    • Ensures the pesto remains rich and smooth, similar to traditional pesto.
  3. Same Process:
    • The process of toasting the pine nuts, blending the ingredients, and using fresh herbs remains the same to maintain the essence and flavor profile of the pesto.
  4. Serving:
    • The pesto is versatile and can be used just like traditional pesto, ensuring it complements various dishes while remaining completely plant-based.

Vegan Lemon Pesto Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 145 kcal
  • Total Fat: 13g
    • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Sodium: 140mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 5g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 3g