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Avocado Pesto Recipe

Flavorful Avocado Pesto

Discover how to make a creamy and delicious Avocado Pesto using a food processor. This healthy, vegan pesto sauce is packed with flavor and ready in minutes!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Appetizer, dip, Main Course, sauce
Cuisine American, Italian Fusion
Servings 6
Calories 0.15 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ripe avocados peeled and pitted
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • A pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat optional

Instructions
 

Prep Your Ingredients

  • First things first, gather all your ingredients. Make sure your avocados are ripe—they should give slightly when you press them. Wash the basil leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt.

Blend It Up

  • In your food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves and garlic cloves. Pulse a few times to break them down.
  • Add the ripe avocados, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Turn on the food processor and slowly drizzle in the olive oil while it's running. This helps emulsify the sauce, giving it that smooth, creamy texture.
  • If you're feeling adventurous, throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Taste and Adjust

  • Open up the food processor and taste your pesto.
  • Adjust the seasoning as needed. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more olive oil or a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.

Serve and Enjoy

  • Transfer the avocado pesto to a bowl or jar.
  • Use it immediately over pasta, as a spread on sandwiches, or even as a dip for veggies.
  • If you're not using it right away, store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Notes

  • Storage: To prevent the pesto from browning, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing.
  • Add Nuts or Seeds: If you're not avoiding nuts, feel free to add pine nuts, walnuts, or even sunflower seeds for extra texture.
  • Herb Substitutions: No basil? No problem! Swap it out for spinach, arugula, or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
  • Make It Zesty: Add some zest from the lemon for an extra citrus punch.
  • Ripeness Matters: Make sure to use ripe avocados for the best texture and flavor.
  • Prevent Browning: To minimize browning, store the pesto with a thin layer of olive oil on top or press plastic wrap against the surface.
  • Customization: Feel free to customize the herbs and seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
  • Nut-Free Alternative: This recipe is naturally nut-free, making it suitable for those with nut allergies.
Keyword Avocado Pesto, Creamy avocado basil pesto, Food processor pesto recipe, Healthy avocado pesto, Homemade pesto without nuts, Vegan pesto sauce