Sunflower Seed Pesto

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
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Sunflower Seed Pesto is a delightful twist on the traditional pesto, offering a nut-free alternative that's perfect for those with allergies or simply looking to try something new. Bursting with fresh basil and a hint of lemon, it's a vibrant, flavorful addition to your meals.

Ingredients for Sunflower Seed Pesto

The star of this pesto is undoubtedly the basil, which provides that fresh, aromatic base we all love. The roasted sunflower seeds step in to replace nuts, offering a subtle, earthy flavor and creamy texture without the allergens. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, savory depth, making this pesto not only vegan-friendly but also incredibly rich in umami. Extra-virgin olive oil is our go-to for a silky finish and a hint of fruity flavor. Garlic gives it a nice punch, while a splash of lemon juice brightens everything up. Lastly, sea salt and freshly ground black pepper bring all these flavors together, enhancing their natural goodness.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a chunkier pesto, pulse less and keep a closer eye on the texture.
  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor — it makes a noticeable difference.
  • If you don't have nutritional yeast, a small amount of grated Parmesan can work, though it won't be vegan.

Serving Suggestions

This pesto shines on a simple pasta dish, tossed with your favorite noodles and a sprinkle of fresh basil on top. It's also fantastic as a spread on sandwiches or wraps, adding a burst of flavor. For a quick appetizer, try serving it with crusty bread or alongside a fresh mozzarella and tomato salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze sunflower seed pesto?
Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using.
Can I use another type of oil?
While olive oil is traditional, you can use avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
What if I don't have a food processor?
You can use a blender, but you might need to stop and scrape down the sides more frequently to ensure everything blends evenly.

Sunflower Seed Pesto Recipe Walkthrough

Start by gathering all your ingredients and equipment. You'll need a good food processor for this. Begin by adding the basil leaves, sunflower seeds, nutritional yeast, and garlic to the processor. Give it a few pulses to chop everything finely — you want a nice, even texture before adding any liquids.

Once your dry ingredients are finely chopped, keep the processor running and slowly drizzle in the olive oil. This gradual addition helps emulsify the pesto, creating a smooth, creamy consistency. Don't rush this step; patience is key!

After you've achieved a smooth blend, stop the processor and add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse a few more times to incorporate these final touches. It's important to taste the pesto now and adjust the seasoning as needed. Every batch of basil can vary slightly in flavor, so make sure it's just right for you.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Nut-free alternative to traditional pesto.
  • Quick and easy to make — ready in under 10 minutes!
  • Rich in flavor and packed with nutrients.
  • Versatile enough to complement a variety of dishes.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup roasted sunflower seeds
1/2 cup nutritional yeast
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Combine basil, sunflower seeds, nutritional yeast, and garlic in a food processor.
2. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped.
3. With the processor running, gradually add olive oil, blending until smooth.
4. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper, pulsing to combine.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

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