If you're looking for a fresh, creamy, and flavorful sauce that’s both nut-free and vegan, this Avocado Lemon Pesto is a must-try. Traditional pesto often contains nuts and cheese, but this plant-based twist uses ripe avocado for creaminess and lemon for a zesty kick—making it ideal for those with dietary restrictions or simply seeking a healthier alternative.
Perfect for pasta, sandwiches, grain bowls, or even as a dip, this recipe comes together in under 10 minutes with just a handful of ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Vegan & Nut-Free – Safe for those with allergies or on a plant-based diet.
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Super Creamy – Thanks to avocado, no cheese or nuts are needed.
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Bright & Zesty – Fresh lemon juice adds a vibrant, tangy flavor.
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Quick & Easy – Ready in 10 minutes with a blender or food processor.
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Versatile – Use it on pasta, toast, veggie bowls, or as a dip.
Ingredients
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1 ripe avocado (peeled and pitted)
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2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
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2 cloves garlic
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2 tbsp nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
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2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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1/2 tsp lemon zest
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1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Water as needed (to adjust consistency)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Scoop out the avocado and wash your basil leaves. Zest and juice the lemon.
2. Blend Everything Together
In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine avocado, basil, garlic, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is mostly smooth.
3. Add Olive Oil
With the motor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Blend until creamy and fully combined. Add 1–2 tbsp water if needed to thin the pesto to your desired consistency.
4. Taste and Adjust
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more lemon for brightness or salt for flavor.
5. Serve or Store
Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To prevent browning, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the pesto.
Serving Ideas
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Toss with Pasta: Perfect as a healthy, dairy-free pasta sauce.
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Spread on Toast: A flavorful alternative to avocado toast.
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Dip for Veggies: Great as a creamy, zesty dip.
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Grain Bowls & Salads: Use as a drizzle over quinoa, rice bowls, or roasted veggies.
Tips for Success
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Use Ripe Avocados – They blend better and give a smoother texture.
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Fresh Basil is Key – Don’t substitute with dried herbs.
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Adjust to Taste – Make it more garlicky, lemony, or cheesy based on your preference.
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Serve Fresh – This pesto is best enjoyed fresh because avocado oxidizes quickly.
Conclusion
This Avocado Lemon Pesto is a creamy, tangy, and vibrant sauce that checks all the boxes—vegan, nut-free, healthy, and absolutely delicious. It’s a simple yet flavorful addition to your weekly meal rotation, perfect for anyone looking to eat more plant-based without sacrificing taste.
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