Easy Vegan Spinach Basil Pesto
If you’ve ever thought store-bought pesto was convenient, wait until you try this super easy homemade vegan spinach basil pesto! It’s fresh, flavorful, and made with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. Plus, it’s completely dairy-free and customizable. Toss it with pasta, spread it on sandwiches, drizzle over roasted veggies, or add it anywhere you need a burst of fresh, herby flavor.
Not only is this recipe perfect for quick weeknight dinners, but it’s also a great way to sneak in extra greens and healthy fats. Whether you’re meal prepping or whipping up something last-minute, this pesto will become your new go-to.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Quick and easy — ready in just 5 minutes!
- Healthy and packed with fresh greens
- Completely vegan and dairy-free
- Customizable: use walnuts or pine nuts, and adjust garlic and seasoning to taste
- Perfect for meal prep
Ingredients for Easy Vegan Spinach Basil Pesto:
- Spinach
- Handful of fresh basil
- Garlic
- Walnuts or pine nuts
- Nutritional yeast
- Dried basil (optional)
- Salt
- Black pepper to taste (optional)
- Water
- Olive oil
Tips & variations:
- Nut-free option: Swap nuts for sunflower seeds.
- Add a kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it creamier: Add a spoonful of avocado for extra richness.
How to use Vegan Spinach Basil Pesto:
- Toss with your favorite pasta
- Spread on toast or sandwiches
- Drizzle over grain bowls
- Serve as a dip with fresh veggies
- Swirl into soups for added flavor
Check out the step-by-step video here:
How to make Easy Vegan Spinach Basil Pesto
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I freeze spinach basil pesto? Yes! Freeze in ice cube trays for individual portions. Store in a zip-top bag and thaw as needed.
- Can I use all basil instead of spinach? Absolutely, but using spinach keeps it mild, nutrient-dense, and budget-friendly.
- Is nutritional yeast required? It’s optional, but it gives the pesto a delicious cheesy flavor without dairy.
Easy Vegan Spinach Basil Pesto
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauce/Spread
- Cuisine: Vegan
Description
This easy vegan spinach basil pesto is fresh, flavorful, and dairy-free! Perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or drizzling over veggies—made in just 10 minutes!
Ingredients
- 2 cups packed spinach
- handful of fresh basil
- 1–2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pine nuts
- 2 tsp nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp dried basil (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- black pepper to taste (optional)
- 3–6 tbsp water (add more as needed)
- drizzle olive oil
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to food processor and blend together. Make sure to add the water 1 tbsp at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Taste and adjust flavor as needed.
- Serve or store in an air tight container in the fridge.
