Pesto Recipe Without Pine Nuts

Pesto lovers, rejoice! If you’ve been searching for a pesto recipe without pine nuts, you’re in the right place. Whether it’s due to allergies, preferences, or simply running out of pine nuts, this recipe swaps them for equally delicious alternatives like walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds.

Pesto sauce is a versatile gem in the culinary world, hailing from Genoa, Italy. Traditionally, it features basil, garlic, olive oil, parmesan, and pine nuts, but this variation retains all the herby, cheesy goodness without the need for pine nuts. It’s ideal for pasta, sandwiches, pizza, or even as a dip. Let’s get blending and create a pesto sauce you’ll want to put on everything!

Pesto Recipe Without Pine Nuts

Recipe by Soukayna

0.0 from 0 votes

Cuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4-6

servings

Prep time

minutes

Calories

kcal

Looking for a nut-free alternative? This pesto recipe without pine nuts delivers the same vibrant flavors with a creative twist. Perfect for pastas, spreads, and more!

Cook Mode

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Ingredients

2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
1/3 cup walnuts (or almonds or sunflower seeds)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for freshness)
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Wash and pat dry the fresh basil leaves.
Toast the walnuts lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally. (Optional but enhances flavor.)
In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, toasted walnuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and lemon juice (if using).
Pulse until the ingredients are coarsely chopped.
With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything is well blended.
Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
For a thinner consistency, add a bit more olive oil or a splash of water.
Use immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Notes

This recipe for pesto sauce without pine nuts can be customized with other nuts or seeds. Experiment with cashews, pecans, or even pumpkin seeds.
To keep the vibrant green color, blanch the basil leaves in boiling water for 10 seconds, then plunge into ice water before blending.
Always toast the nuts for a deeper, richer flavor.

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Tips for Perfect Pesto Recipe Without Pine Nuts:

Use Fresh Basil: Fresh, vibrant basil leaves make all the difference in flavor. Avoid wilted or bruised leaves.
Choose High-Quality Olive Oil: Since olive oil is a key ingredient, opt for extra virgin for the best flavor.
Blend in Pulses: Over-processing can heat up the basil and alter the flavor. Pulse the ingredients in short bursts for the best consistency.
Experiment with Acidity: Lemon juice isn’t traditional, but it brightens the flavor and balances the richness of the oil and cheese.
Customize to Your Taste: Adjust the garlic and cheese amounts based on your preferences for a milder or stronger flavor.

Recipe Variants:

Vegan Pesto: Replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative.
Spicy Pesto: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a fresh chili for a kick.
Cilantro Pesto: Swap basil for cilantro for a fresh, citrusy twist.
Kale-Walnut Pesto: Use kale instead of basil and walnuts for a hearty and earthy variation.
Avocado Pesto: Blend in half an avocado for a creamy texture and healthy fats.

FAQ:

Can I freeze pesto sauce without pine nuts?

Yes! Freeze the pesto in ice cube trays, then transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw as needed for a quick burst of flavor.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano works well, or you can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option

How do I prevent the pesto from turning brown?

Store it in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to minimize air exposure.

Can I use dried basil?

Fresh basil is key for authentic flavor. Dried basil doesn’t provide the same vibrant taste or texture.

If you enjoyed this pesto recipe without pine nuts, you’ll love our Spinach Pesto Pasta Recipe – a simple yet indulgent dish that pairs perfectly with homemade pesto!

This pesto recipe without pine nuts is proof that classic flavors can adapt beautifully to different dietary needs and ingredient availability. With its bold basil aroma, rich Parmesan, and creamy texture, this pesto is a versatile addition to any meal. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, tossing it with pasta, or spooning it onto pizza, it’s sure to delight your taste buds. Give it a try and experience how easy it is to elevate your cooking with this nut-free twist on a classic!