FOOD, Main Course, Pasta, SIDE DISH, Snacks

Dairy and Nut Free Pesto

A versatile sauce, spread, or dip that’s allergy-friendly and SO yummy!

Feast your eyes on this vibrant bowl of basil bliss – Pesto, the green magic that makes everything tastier!

Hey there, food aficionados! If you’ve been on the hunt for a lip-smacking, allergy-friendly pesto that will make your taste buds tango, then you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re diving into the world of nut-free and dairy-free pesto, bursting with flavor and nutritional benefits that will leave you craving for more — AND it’s safe for those in our families with nut and/or dairy allergies!

So, let’s grab our basil bunches and embark on this delicious adventure!

When you (or your kiddo) is new to the world of food allergies, it’s hard not to notice all the tried and true recipes staples in your regular rotation that are now no longer safe for some of those sitting at your dinner table. And, if you’re like many families who deal with the threat of anaphylaxis, you may have opted to remove said allergen entirely from your home — making your home a safe haven for the food allergy suffer.

If traditional pesto was one of your families favorites, we’ve done some of the hard work (if pesto taste testing is hard work, lol) of perfecting a nut free and dairy free pesto the whole family can enjoy together.

The Power of Pesto

Pesto has been a beloved staple in Italian cuisine for ages, and it’s no wonder why. This versatile sauce combines the aromatic flavors of fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, pine nuts, and cheese. But what if you have allergies or dietary restrictions? Fear not, dear reader, because we’ve got your back with a nut free and dairy free pesto that will blow your mind!

Dairy and Nut Free Pesto Nutritional Boosts

Our nut free and dairy free pesto is not only a taste sensation but also a powerhouse of nutritional benefits. By substituting nuts with sunflower seeds, we maintain that delightful, creamy texture while offering a dose of healthy fats, protein, and minerals. Plus, the fresh basil in our pesto packs a punch of antioxidants, vitamins A and K, and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s a win-win situation for your taste buds and your well-being!

  • Basil: This popular herd not only adds a burst of aromatic flavor to dishes, but it also boasts an impressive array of nutritional benefits, including antioxidants, vitamin K, vitamin A, and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Sunflower Seeds: These little nutritional powerhouses are packed with healthy fats, fiber, protein, vitamin E, and minerals like magnesium and selenium, making them a fantastic addition to any diet. And, by substituting nuts with sunflower seeds, we maintain that delightful, creamy texture!
  • Garlic: A versatile culinary superhero that has immune-boosting properties, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and potential cardiovascular benefits.
  • Nutritional Yeast: This vegan pantry staple has a unique savory flavor the resembles cheese — this magical ingredient means you won’t miss the parmesan cheese of traditional pesto . It’s packed with B vitamins, protein, fiber, and essential minerals like zinc and selenium, making it a fantastic addition to a plant-based diet.
  • Olive Oil: The liquid gold of the Mediterranean, olive oil offers a range of nutritional benefits, including heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and potential protective effects against chronic diseases, making it a key ingredient for promoting overall well-being.

Pesto Possibilities

Pesto is NOT just for pasta! Once you’ve created your pesto masterpiece, here are some tantalizing ideas on how to use it in your kitchen:

  1. Pasta Party: Toss your favorite gluten-free pasta in our pesto, and voilà! You have a quick and scrumptious dinner option that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
  2. Zesty Veggie Dip: Whip up a batch of pesto to use as a dip for an array of crisp, fresh veggies. It’s a perfect addition to your next gathering or a healthy snack for those midday cravings.
  3. Sandwich Sensation: Slather your sandwiches with pesto to take them from ordinary to extraordinary. It adds a burst of flavor that will make your taste buds do a happy dance.
  4. Pizza Perfecto: Swap out the traditional tomato sauce with our allergy-friendly pesto for a gourmet pizza experience. Top it with your favorite veggies and vegan cheese, and you’ll never look back.
  5. Roasted Delights: Coat your roasted potatoes, cauliflower, or other veggies with our nut free pesto before popping them into the oven. Roasting + Pesto = 🤤

Are you drooling yet? 🤤

Whether you’re allergic, lactose intolerant, or simply seeking a fresh twist on pesto, our nut free and dairy free version will become a favorite in your new allergy-friendly recipe rotation. So, let’s savor the goodness together and make pesto the reigning champ of your culinary repertoire! Bon appétit!

Equipment Needed

Food Processor
Food Processor

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Dairy and Nut Free Pesto

A versatile sauce, spread, or dip that's allergy-friendly and SO yummy!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time1 minute
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American, Italian, Mediterranean
Keyword: allergy friendly, basil, dairy free, dip, egg free, Italian, Mediterranean, nut free, pesto, sauce, sesame free, shellfish free, soy free, vegan, wheat free, whole30
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 169kcal
Author: Rebecca

Equipment

  • Food Processor

Ingredients

  • 2 cups packed fresh basil
  • ¼ cup unsalted sunflower seeds (pumpkin seeds would also work)
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 3 Tbsp nutritional yeast
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 4-8 Tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients, except olive oil, to a food processor.
  • Blend ingredients while slowly adding olive oil until you achieve the desired consistency.
  • Serve and enjoy! Pesto goes great on pasta, as a veggie or bread dip, a spread on sandwiches, on pizza instead of red sauce, roasted on vegetables, and so much more!

Notes

For your convenience, Pine & Oak will occasionally provide estimated caloric or nutritional information. These are estimates only and users are responsible for calculating the caloric or nutritional information with the actual ingredients and brands they will use. Users are also responsible for checking and ensuring all ingredients and brands used are safe for their particular allergies.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases. 
© Pine & Oak – livepineoak.com

Hi, i'm rebecca,

nice to meet you!

I'm a former marketing director for a Fortune 100 company turned homeschool ringleader and food allergy warrior living in Texas. My favorite things include chocolate, photography, and travel!

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HI, I'M REBECCA,

nice to meet you!

I'm a former marketing director for a Fortune 100 company turned homeschool ringleader and food allergy warrior living in Texas. My favorite things include chocolate, photography, and travel!

The Full Story »