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Green Pesto Pasta Sauce: A Creamy, Herby Twist on the Classic


Introduction:


I searched high and low for a tasty nut free pesto recipe for my son who has severe allergy to nut and I couldn't find one. So - I created one! This Green Pesto Pasta Sauce literally takes minutes to make and stores well, perfect the busy family that needs to prep once and access leftovers quickly!


Made with a blend of basil, kale or spinach, garlic, and lime — this pesto puts a zesty, plant-powered spin on a traditional favorite. Whether you’re looking for a pesto recipe without pine nuts, a dairy-free option, or just something out of the box, this recipe will soon become a staple in your kitchen.


Why You’ll Love This Pesto


This sauce is:

  • ✅ Naturally dairy-optional (use nutritional yeast or Parmesan… or both!)

  • 🧄 Packed with immune-boosting garlic and leafy greens

  • 🥬 Full of fiber, healthy fats, and plant-powered flavor

  • 🕒 Ready in just 5 minutes



A recipe from Amanda Liptak, RDN, CLT, CA


Ingredients


  • 2 cloves garlic

  • 1/2 Cup fresh basil leaves

  • 1/2  Cup kale or spinach

  • 1 tsp fresh mint leaves

  • 1 avocado, skin and seed removed

  • 2 TBSP nutritional yeast or parmesan cheese (may use both if desired)

  • 1/2 fresh lime, juiced

  • 1 TBSP extra virgin olive oil

  • 1/4 Cup unsweetened milk of choice

  • 1 tsp dried or 1 TBSP fresh oregano

  • Sea salt and pepper, to taste 

  • Optional: use lemon in place of lime or omit mint leaves if desired.


Instructions


  1. Blend all ingredients on high in a food processor and serve with freshly cooked pasta. May simmer on stove before serving or serve directly from blender. Freeze leftovers.  

 

How to Use This Sauce


  • Toss with warm pasta and top with cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms or broccoli.

  • Use as a spread on wraps, sandwiches, or toast.

  • Drizzle over roasted veggies, grain bowls, or buddha bowls.

  • Stir into scrambled egg whites or savory oats for a herby boost.


🥄 Optional Add-Ins


Want to make it heartier? Try adding:

  • A handful of walnuts or cashews for creaminess

  • A spoonful of tahini for extra healthy fats

  • Roasted red peppers for a smoky-sweet variation


This Green Pesto Pasta Sauce is a fresh, nutrient-rich way to add flavor to nearly anything on your plate. It’s quick to whip up, endlessly versatile, and a great way to sneak in more greens without sacrificing flavor.


Spring and summer time are the perfect time to try this recipe as fresh herbs are plentiful! If you try it and love it - let us know! It's become a staple in our house!



A Final Note


Here at Nutrient Rich Life we believe that variety is the spice of life! We encourage everyone to make all foods fit as much as possible and that includes eating more plants and cooking in a way that adds fun and flavor to your life! 


Amanda Liptak

Hi, I'm Amanda!


Functional weight loss coach, registered dietitian nutritionist and mom of one picky eater with multiple food allergies! I'm a big believer that if you can learn to fish -- you can eat for life! So this blog is dedicated to helping you learn to toss out the food myths that result in unnecessary food stress so that you can become a confident, healthy eater!










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