This delicious vegan walnut basil pesto recipe packs vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and the world’s healthiest nut. 😋
I’m a huge fan of homemade pesto recipes, and especially made with basil and walnuts. In fact not long ago Dr. Michael Greger claimed that walnuts are the healthiest nut: “They contain some of the highest antioxidant and omega-3 levels, and are the only nuts known to significantly improve artery function,” he said.
They also team with garlic—a major powerhouse—and basil, an antioxidative force, and the extra-virgin olive oil in this recipe rocks healthy fats and polyphenols.
One report notes that thepolyphenols in olive oil display “anticancer, anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory properties.”
It’s little wonder this recipe is as nutritious as it is delicious! 💚
Vegan Walnut Basil Pesto Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
- Packed with nutrition – Walnuts are one of the healthiest nuts, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and polyphenols that support heart-health, brain-health, and metabolism. Paired with raw garlic, this pesto doubles as a flavorful way to boost immunity and fight inflammation naturally.
- Vegan and dairy-free – Traditional pesto often relies on Parmesan, but this version is completely plant-based without sacrificing creaminess or depth of flavor. Nutritional yeast adds a subtle cheesy note for that classic pesto taste.
- Fast and foolproof – With just a handful of ingredients and a food processor, you can have fresh pesto ready in under 10 minutes.
- Endlessly versatile – Toss it with pasta, spread it on sandwiches, drizzle over veggies, or use it as a dip for crackers and crudités. It instantly elevates almost any meal.
- Fresh, bold flavor – Basil brings bright herbal notes, walnuts add a rich, nutty base, and raw garlic delivers a zesty kick that makes every bite pop.
Here’s what you’ll need (full recipe below):
Equipment
- Food processor (or blender).
- Mixing bowl.
- Colander.
- Food storage container.
- Flatware/cutlery.
- Knife set.
- Cutting board.
- Crockery.
- Paper towels.
- Measuring cups.
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup basil.
- 1/2 cup walnuts.
- 2-3 cloves garlic (raw, peeled)
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional, for cheesy flavor)
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil.
- 1/4 tsp pink salt.
- 1/4 tsp grains of paradise.
- 1-2 tbsp filtered water (optional, to thin if needed)
Vegan Pesto Health Benefits
Rich in Omega-3s – Walnuts are the best plant source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 that supports brain, heart, and anti-inflammatory health.
Powerful Antioxidants – Basil, walnuts, and garlic combined provide polyphenols and flavonoids that neutralize free radicals and protect cells from oxidative stress.
Supports Heart Health – Extra-virgin olive oil and walnuts reduce inflammation and oxidative stress while promoting healthy blood vessels.
Brain & Cognitive Support – Walnuts contain neuroprotective compounds, while basil’s eugenol and EVOO’s polyphenols protect cellular health.
Immune Boosting – Raw garlic has natural antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, helping the body defend against infections.
Anti-Inflammatory – EVOO, basil, and walnuts all contain compounds shown to calm chronic inflammation, a root driver of aging and disease.
Gut Health – Walnuts act as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria, while garlic promotes a healthy microbiome balance.
Bone Strength – Basil offers vitamin K and calcium, essential for bone density and strength.
Blood Sugar Balance – Walnuts and EVOO help stabilize blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity.
Skin & Anti-Aging – The combination of healthy fats, antioxidants, and polyphenols supports skin elasticity, hydration, and protection against UV damage.
Instructions
Combine ingredients: In a food processor, add basil, walnuts, garlic, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
Add oil: While processing, slowly drizzle in olive oil until a creamy, slightly chunky consistency forms.
Adjust texture: If the pesto is too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of water until desired consistency is reached.
Taste and season: Adjust spices or garlic as needed.
Serve or store: Use immediately or refrigerate with a thin layer of olive oil on top, or freeze in small portions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pesto ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. For best color, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the top before sealing.
Does this pesto freeze well?
Absolutely. Spoon it into small jars or ice cube trays, freeze, and then transfer cubes to a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge or stir directly into food.
Do I have to toast the walnuts first?
Raw organic walnuts exposed to heat lose nutrients. That’s because several key compounds in walnuts, such as polyunsaturated fats and antioxidants, are heat-sensitive. Ditto for nutrients in garlic.
What if I don’t have nutritional yeast?
You can leave it out, but it adds a mild, cheesy flavor.
Can I adjust the garlic?
Raw garlic is strong—use less for a milder pesto, or more if you love a bold kick (and antioxidants).
What does pesto go with?
Pesto is great on sandwiches, drizzled over veggies, or as a dip for bread and crackers. It also rocks on pizza, pasta, wraps, calzones, appetizer trays, falafel, Italian foods, salads, and more. It’s especially tasty on a crusty loaf of homemade sourdough bread.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Pesto too thick: Add a little water, olive oil, or even a splash of plant-based milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Too bitter: Some walnuts can be naturally bitter. Soak or add a pinch of salt to balance the flavor.
- Garlic too strong: Reduce the number of cloves or blend with the other ingredients longer to mellow the sharpness.
- Pesto separates: This can happen if stored too long. Stir well before serving to bring it back together.
Vegan Walnut Basil Pesto Recipe
Equipment
- Food processor (or blender).
Ingredients
- 1 cup basil.
- 1/2 cup walnuts.
- 2-3 cloves garlic (raw, peeled)
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional, for cheesy flavor)
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil.
- 1/4 tsp pink salt.
- 1/4 tsp grains of paradise.
- 1-2 tbsp filtered water (optional, to thin if needed)
Nutrition
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