Avocado Lemon Pesto (Nut-Free) Recipe
Introduction
This creamy avocado lemon pesto is a refreshing twist on the classic sauce, perfect for those avoiding nuts. Bright, tangy, and smooth, it pairs wonderfully with pasta, roasted vegetables, or as a versatile dipping sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil
- 1 cup avocado
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the fresh basil, avocado, lemon juice, water, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder in a high-speed blender.
- Step 2: Blend until smooth, adding more water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Step 3: Serve immediately over cooked pasta, toss with roasted vegetables, or use as a flavorful dipping sauce.
Tips & Variations
- For a thicker pesto, reduce the water amount or add a handful of grated Parmesan.
- Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a stronger garlic flavor.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
Storage
Store leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent browning, press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing. Reheat gently or serve chilled.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this pesto ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pesto up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated and covered tightly to maintain freshness.
Is this pesto suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! This recipe is completely plant-based and free from dairy and nuts, making it perfect for vegan diets.
PrintAvocado Lemon Pesto (Nut-Free) Recipe
This Avocado Lemon Pesto is a creamy, nut-free twist on the classic pesto, featuring fresh basil, ripe avocado, and zesty lemon juice. Perfect as a sauce for pasta, a dressing for roasted vegetables, or a flavorful dipping sauce, this healthy and versatile recipe comes together quickly with just a few wholesome ingredients.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1.5 cups of pesto, serves 4-6 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Avocado Lemon Pesto
- 2 Cups Fresh Basil
- 1 Cup Avocado (about 1 medium avocado, peeled and pitted)
- 1/4 Cup Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 Cup Water
- 1/2 Teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 Teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1/4 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Wash and roughly chop the fresh basil to help it blend more easily. Peel, pit, and scoop out the avocado flesh.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the fresh basil, avocado, lemon juice, water, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder into a high-speed blender.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend all ingredients on high speed until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. If the pesto is too thick, gradually add more water until the desired texture is reached.
- Serve and Enjoy: Use the avocado lemon pesto immediately as a sauce over pasta, toss it with roasted vegetables, or serve as a delicious and healthy dipping sauce.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh basil and ripe avocados.
- Adjust the amount of water to achieve your preferred pesto thickness.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
- This recipe is naturally nut-free, making it suitable for those with nut allergies.
- If you want a more garlicky flavor, consider adding fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder.
Keywords: avocado pesto, nut-free pesto, lemon pesto, vegan pesto, avocado sauce, dairy-free pesto, easy pesto recipe
