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Avocado Lemon Pesto (Nut-Free + Vegan) Recipe


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4.3 from 48 reviews

  • Author: Sophia
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: About 2 cups of pesto (serves 6-8 as a sauce)
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This vibrant Avocado Lemon Pesto is a creamy, nut-free, and vegan alternative to traditional pesto. Made with fresh basil, ripe avocado, zesty lemon juice, and simple seasonings, it blends into a smooth sauce perfect for dressing pasta, vegetables, or as a dip. The combination of lemon and avocado offers a refreshing, tangy flavor with a luscious texture that complements various dishes while being allergy-friendly and plant-based.


Ingredients

Pesto

  • 2 Cups Fresh Basil
  • 1 Cup Avocado (about 1 medium ripe avocado)
  • 1 Cup Water (adjust as needed for consistency)
  • ¼ Cup Lemon Juice (use ⅓ cup for extra citrus kick)
  • ½ Teaspoon Salt
  • ¼ Teaspoon Black Pepper
  • ¼ Teaspoon Garlic Powder


Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: Add all the pesto ingredients—fresh basil, avocado, water, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder—into a high-speed blender to prepare for blending.
  2. Blend to Smooth: Blend on high speed until the mixture reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. If the pesto is too thick, gradually add more water until the desired texture is achieved.
  3. Serve: Pour the avocado lemon pesto over cooked pasta, roasted or steamed vegetables, or use it as a dip. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for 5-7 days.
  • For best freshness, mix the pesto into pasta or vegetables just before serving rather than mixing all at once to prevent sogginess.
  • If using pasta like chickpea pasta or vegetable noodles, avoid letting pesto sit on it overnight to maintain texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired