15 Yummy Vegan Pesto Recipe Ideas

Vegan Pesto Recipe Ideas are a fantastic way to enjoy the vibrant, herbaceous flavors of traditional pesto while keeping it plant-based. By swapping out dairy for alternative ingredients, vegan pesto offers all the deliciousness without the need for cheese. This versatile sauce can be used in a variety of dishes, from classic pasta to sandwiches, salads, and even as a dip for veggies or crackers. Whether you’re looking for a simple, fresh option or a creative twist on the traditional recipe, these vegan pesto ideas will elevate your meals with ease and flavor.

Vegan Pesto Recipe Ideas

1. Classic Vegan Basil Pesto

Description
This Classic Vegan Basil Pesto brings the traditional flavors of basil, garlic, and pine nuts together in a creamy, dairy-free sauce. By swapping out Parmesan for nutritional yeast and using plant-based ingredients, this pesto remains true to its roots but caters to those following a vegan diet. It’s an incredibly versatile sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta, pizza, sandwiches, or even roasted vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts as an alternative)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional for brightness)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Nutritional Information (per serving – 2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Vitamin A: 15% of the daily value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 10% DV
• Calcium: 2% DV
• Iron: 6% DV

This classic pesto provides a healthy dose of fats from olive oil and pine nuts, along with the added benefits of fiber and vitamins from fresh basil.

2. Kale and Walnut Pesto

Description
Kale and Walnut Pesto is a hearty, nutrient-packed twist on the traditional basil pesto. Kale, known for its rich vitamin content, pairs perfectly with the earthy, slightly bitter flavor of walnuts. This vegan pesto offers a robust, slightly nutty flavor, making it a great option for those looking to add more greens to their meals. It’s perfect for pasta, spreading on toast, or drizzling over roasted vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
• 1/4 cup walnuts (toasted for extra flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Nutritional Information (per serving – 2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 160
• Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 70mg
• Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Vitamin A: 25% of the daily value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 35% DV
• Calcium: 6% DV
• Iron: 10% DV

This kale and walnut pesto is an excellent source of fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants, making it a nourishing addition to any dish.

3. Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto

Description
Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto brings a bold, tangy flavor that’s perfect for anyone who loves a richer, more intense pesto. The sun-dried tomatoes provide a smoky sweetness that combines beautifully with the nutty richness of almonds, making this vegan pesto a delicious alternative to the traditional basil version. It’s fantastic on pasta, as a spread on sandwiches or wraps, or even as a topping for roasted vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed or dried, soaked in water if using dried)
• 1/4 cup almonds (or pine nuts)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional for extra depth)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Nutritional Information (per serving – 2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 140
• Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 160mg
• Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 3g
• Vitamin A: 10% of the daily value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 8% DV
• Calcium: 4% DV
• Iron: 6% DV

This sun-dried tomato pesto is full of flavor and offers a healthy dose of healthy fats and antioxidants.

4. Arugula and Cashew Pesto

Description
Arugula and Cashew Pesto combines the peppery, bold flavor of arugula with the creamy richness of cashews for a delightful vegan twist on the classic pesto. This pesto offers a unique, slightly spicy taste, with the cashews adding a buttery texture that perfectly balances the pepperiness of arugula. It’s an excellent option for pasta, grain bowls, or even as a spread for sandwiches and wraps.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh arugula leaves
• 1/4 cup cashews (raw or roasted)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Nutritional Information (per serving – 2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Vitamin A: 20% of the daily value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 10% DV
• Calcium: 2% DV
• Iron: 6% DV

This Arugula and Cashew Pesto is not only rich in healthy fats and protein but also packed with vitamins A and C, thanks to the fresh arugula.

5. Avocado Pesto

Description
Avocado Pesto is a creamy, rich alternative to traditional pesto, offering a smooth texture and a mild, buttery flavor thanks to the avocado. This version provides healthy fats from the avocado, making it a great choice for those looking for a nutrient-dense and satisfying sauce. The avocado blends beautifully with fresh basil, garlic, and pine nuts, creating a velvety pesto that’s perfect for pasta, grain bowls, or even as a spread for toast or sandwiches.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Nutritional Information (per serving – 2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 180
• Total Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 35mg
• Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Vitamin A: 10% of the daily value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 15% DV
• Calcium: 2% DV
• Iron: 6% DV

This Avocado Pesto is packed with heart-healthy fats and fiber, along with a good dose of vitamins C and A.

6. Cilantro Lime Pesto

Description
Cilantro Lime Pesto offers a zesty and vibrant twist on traditional pesto. The fresh, citrusy lime pairs beautifully with the bright, herbaceous cilantro, creating a unique, refreshing sauce that’s perfect for summer dishes. This vegan pesto is not only full of flavor but also offers a burst of freshness that works wonderfully on pasta, tacos, grilled vegetables, or as a dip for chips and veggies.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh cilantro leaves (stems removed)
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (or pine nuts)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Zest of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Nutritional Information (per serving – 2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 120
• Total Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Vitamin A: 10% of the daily value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 25% DV
• Calcium: 2% DV
• Iron: 6% DV

Cilantro Lime Pesto is a refreshing and nutrient-packed sauce full of healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins. Its zesty flavor makes it an excellent choice for adding a tangy twist to your plant-based meals!

7. Mint and Pistachio Pesto

Description
Mint and Pistachio Pesto is a fragrant, refreshing take on traditional pesto, combining the cool, aromatic flavor of mint with the rich, slightly sweet taste of pistachios. This vegan pesto provides a delightful contrast in textures, with the pistachios offering a creamy base while the mint adds a fresh, herbal kick. It’s perfect for pairing with pasta, drizzling over grilled vegetables, or spreading on sandwiches and wraps.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup pistachios (shelled and unsalted)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Nutritional Information (per serving – 2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 160
• Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Vitamin A: 10% of the daily value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 15% DV
• Calcium: 2% DV
• Iron: 6% DV

This Mint and Pistachio Pesto is not only delicious but also packed with healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants.

8. Roasted Red Pepper Pesto

Description
Roasted Red Pepper Pesto is a vibrant and flavorful twist on the traditional pesto. The natural sweetness of roasted red peppers, combined with the smokiness and depth of flavor, creates a rich and savory sauce. This vegan pesto is perfect for adding a burst of color and flavor to pasta, grain bowls, sandwiches, or as a dip for vegetables and crackers. It’s a great option for those who love a slightly smoky and sweet flavor profile.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade)
• 1/4 cup almonds (or pine nuts)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Nutritional Information (per serving – 2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 120
• Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 2g
• Vitamin A: 35% of the daily value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 80% DV
• Calcium: 4% DV
• Iron: 6% DV

This Roasted Red Pepper Pesto is a flavorful and nutrient-dense option, providing a rich source of vitamin A and C, along with healthy fats from olive oil and almonds.

9. Spinach and Almond Pesto

Description
Spinach and Almond Pesto offers a mild, earthy flavor thanks to the spinach, paired with the rich and creamy texture of almonds. This vegan pesto is a wonderful alternative for those who prefer a less intense flavor than traditional basil pesto. It’s packed with nutrients and is a great way to sneak in some extra greens into your meals. It’s perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a topping for roasted vegetables and grain bowls.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves (packed)
• 1/4 cup almonds (raw or toasted)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Nutritional Information (per serving – 2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Vitamin A: 20% of the daily value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 15% DV
• Calcium: 6% DV
• Iron: 8% DV

This Spinach and Almond Pesto is a healthy, protein-packed option that’s rich in vitamins A and C. With its creamy texture and mild flavor, it’s a great way to enjoy a nutrient-dense pesto while keeping things light and fresh.

10. Zucchini Pesto

Description
Zucchini Pesto offers a light, fresh, and slightly creamy twist on the traditional pesto. The mild flavor of zucchini blends beautifully with the richness of olive oil and the nuttiness of seeds or nuts, creating a smooth, vibrant pesto that’s perfect for any dish. This vegan pesto is a fantastic way to use up extra zucchini and is especially good for those looking for a lower-calorie option. It works wonderfully on pasta, roasted vegetables, or even as a spread on sandwiches and wraps.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium zucchini, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (or pine nuts)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Nutritional Information (per serving – 2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 100
• Total Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 2g
• Vitamin A: 4% of the daily value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 15% DV
• Calcium: 2% DV
• Iron: 4% DV

Zucchini Pesto is a nutrient-packed, refreshing option that’s lower in calories but still rich in healthy fats and fiber.

FAQ

Can I substitute nuts in vegan pesto recipes?

Yes, you can substitute nuts with seeds like sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or hemp seeds if you’re allergic to nuts or prefer a nut-free pesto. You can also use roasted chickpeas for a different texture.

How long does vegan pesto last in the fridge?

Vegan pesto can typically last in the fridge for up to 5-7 days when stored in an airtight container. To maintain its vibrant color, drizzle a little extra olive oil on top before sealing it.

Can I freeze vegan pesto?

Yes, you can freeze vegan pesto! It’s best to freeze it in an ice cube tray for portion control or in an airtight container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge before using.

What can I use vegan pesto for besides pasta?

Vegan pesto is versatile! You can use it as a spread for sandwiches, wraps, or toast, drizzle it over roasted vegetables, use it as a dip for chips and crackers, or even stir it into soups and grain bowls.