Classic Vegan Basil Pesto

Step 1

Optional – blanch the basil (see Tip above): Bring a few cups of water to boil in a medium saucepan. Add the basil leaves. Cook for 5-10 seconds, then immediately drain the leaves and rinse under cold water until no longer hot, or use a slotted spoon to grab the basil from the hot water and transfer them to an ice bath. Dry the basil well before using.

Step 2

To toast pine nuts: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the pine nuts and toss occasionally to prevent burning, until they are golden and release a nutty aroma, about 4-6 minutes.

Step 3

Add the toasted pine nuts to a food processor and blitz until you have a fine crumb. Add the basil (blanched or raw), garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, black pepper to taste, and nutritional yeast (if using). Blend until a paste forms, scraping down the sides as you go along.

Step 4

With the motor running, stream in the extra virgin olive oil to start to form a sauce. Scrape down the sides again, and stream in more oil as needed until you have a smooth yet thick texture. If the pesto is still not smooth enough but you don’t want to add more oil, add a spoon of water at a time until the sauce comes together. Taste for seasonings, adding more salt, lemon, garlic, or nutritional yeast as needed.

Step 5

Store in an airtight glass jar in the fridge for 5 days, or freeze up to 6 months.