Vegan Lemon Pesto Recipe

Ingredients:

Instructions:

Juice and Zest Lemons:
- Squeeze the juice from the lemons into a blender.
- Grate the lemon zest and add it to the blender.
Toast Pine Nuts:
- Toast the pine nuts in a pan over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and fragrant. This step enhances their flavor. Add them to the blender.
Add Remaining Ingredients:
- Add the nutritional yeast, parsley, basil, garlic, a generous drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper to the blender.
Blend:
- Blend all the ingredients until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides of the blender a few times to ensure everything is well mixed.
Store:
- Transfer the lemon pesto to a sterilized jar. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Serving Suggestions:

For Pasta:
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain, reserving some pasta cooking water.
- Toss the cooked spaghetti with a few spoonfuls of lemon pesto, using the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
As a Spread:
- Use the lemon pesto as a spread for bruschetta or sandwiches.

Tips:

Lemon Variety: For an authentic taste, use Procida lemons or any organic, untreated lemons.
Nuts: Substitute pine nuts with toasted almonds for a different flavor.
Cheese Substitute: Nutritional yeast is used in place of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy, nutty flavor.
Storage: The pesto can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in a jar covered with a thin layer of olive oil.

Nutritional Yeast:
- Replaces Parmesan cheese. Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast that provides a cheesy, nutty flavor, making it a great substitute in vegan recipes.
Olive Oil:
- Ensures the pesto remains rich and smooth, similar to traditional pesto.
Same Process:
- The process of toasting the pine nuts, blending the ingredients, and using fresh herbs remains the same to maintain the essence and flavor profile of the pesto.
Serving:
- The pesto is versatile and can be used just like traditional pesto, ensuring it complements various dishes while remaining completely plant-based.