If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant, and utterly delicious way to elevate your meals, look no further than this Vegan Spinach Pesto (Nut-free). Packed with the goodness of greens and bursting with flavor, this pesto is versatile and easy to whip up. Whether you’re tossing it with pasta, spreading it on sandwiches, or using it as a dip, this nut-free version ensures everyone can enjoy it without worry. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more greens into your diet!

Why Vegan Spinach Pesto (Nut-free) is Worth Your Time

This Vegan Spinach Pesto (Nut-free) is not just a simple sauce—it’s a game-changer in your kitchen. It brings together the earthiness of spinach, the aromatic charm of basil, and the savory depth of garlic, all while remaining completely nut-free and suitable for various dietary needs. Making your own pesto means you can control the ingredients, avoid preservatives, and create a fresh flavor that’s simply unbeatable compared to store-bought varieties. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you can create a vibrant, nutrient-rich condiment that enhances a multitude of dishes.

What You’ll Gather

2 cups Fresh spinach leaves – packed with vitamins and minerals.
2 cups Fresh basil leaves – for that classic pesto flavor.
3 cloves Garlic – adds a robust aroma and taste.
½ cup Nutritional yeast – brings a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
½ cup Sunflower seeds (raw, unsalted) or toasted/roasted – a nut-free alternative that adds texture.
½ cup Olive oil – for richness and smoothness.
½ tsp Salt – to enhance all the flavors.
½ tsp Nutmeg (optional) – for a subtle warmth.

Equipment & Tools

Food processor – the star tool for blending everything to a creamy consistency.
Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure precision in your ingredients.
Spatula – for scraping down the sides of your food processor.
Storage container – to keep your pesto fresh in the fridge.

Mastering Vegan Spinach Pesto (Nut-free): How-To

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by washing the fresh spinach and basil leaves thoroughly. Remove any tough stems from the spinach to ensure a smooth blend. Peel the garlic cloves and set everything aside.

Step 2: Blend the Greens

In your food processor, combine the fresh spinach and basil leaves. Pulse a few times until they are roughly chopped.

Step 3: Add the Flavors

Next, add the garlic cloves, nutritional yeast, and sunflower seeds into the food processor. Blend until these ingredients are finely chopped and well incorporated.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. This helps to emulsify the ingredients and create that creamy pesto texture. Keep blending until everything is thoroughly combined and smooth.

Step 5: Season to Perfection

Add the salt and, if using, the nutmeg. Blend again to mix the seasoning thoroughly. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary to suit your preference.

Step 6: Store or Serve

Transfer your Vegan Spinach Pesto (Nut-free) to a storage container. You can enjoy it immediately or refrigerate it for later use. It can stay fresh in the fridge for up to a week.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

Swap in kale or arugula for a different green base.
Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice for a citrusy kick.
Use pumpkin seeds instead of sunflower seeds for a unique flavor.
Incorporate different herbs like parsley or cilantro for a varied taste.

If You’re Curious

This Vegan Spinach Pesto (Nut-free) is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Spinach is rich in iron, while basil provides antioxidants. Nutritional yeast is a fantastic source of B vitamins, and sunflower seeds add a good dose of healthy fats. This pesto is a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition into your meals without compromising on flavor.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Vegan Spinach Pesto (Nut-free) is freezer-friendly! Portion the pesto into ice cube trays or small containers and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag for easy access. You can grab a cube whenever you need a quick flavor boost in soups, sauces, or pasta dishes.

See You at the Table

This Vegan Spinach Pesto (Nut-free) is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its bright flavors and creamy texture, it adds a delightful twist to any dish. Whether you’re serving it up at a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this pesto is a delicious reminder of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. So gather your greens, fire up that food processor, and get ready to enjoy a burst of flavor that you can feel good about. Happy cooking!