Creamy Avocado Pesto Sauce: A Healthy, Flavorful Twist on Classic Pesto
This creamy avocado pesto sauce is a vegan, dairy-free twist on traditional pesto. With fresh basil, ripe avocados, and simple wholesome ingredients, it's quick, healthy, and perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip. Try this easy avocado pesto with walnuts for a vibrant, nutrient-packed recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 large bunch fresh basil The star of the show! Fresh basil adds signature herby goodness.
- 2 ripe avocados The key to the sauce's creamy, luscious texture.
- ½ cup walnuts or hempseeds Walnuts add a subtle nuttiness, while hempseeds are a great nut-free option.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice Balances the richness and helps prevent avocado browning.
- 3 cloves garlic Adds a bold, savory kick.
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt Elevates all the flavors.
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil Brings the pesto together into a silky sauce.
- Ground pepper to taste – Adds a light peppery zing.
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients. Strip the basil leaves from the stems, and scoop out the flesh of the ripe avocados.
- Blend the base. In a food processor, combine the basil, avocados, walnuts (or hempseeds), lemon juice, garlic, and sea salt. Pulse until everything is finely chopped.
- Finish with olive oil. Drizzle in the olive oil and process until the mixture forms a thick, smooth paste. Season with ground pepper to taste.
Notes
To prevent browning during storage, press plastic wrap directly onto the pesto's surface. For a thinner sauce, add an extra drizzle of olive oil or a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.