Creamy Pesto Sauce (Dairy-Free)

 Here's a recipe for a Creamy Pesto Sauce (Dairy-Free) that’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip!

Ingredients:

2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)

1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a more budget-friendly option)

2 cloves garlic

1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)

1/2 cup olive oil

1/2 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Toast the nuts (optional):

In a dry skillet over medium heat, lightly toast the pine nuts (or walnuts) for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until golden and fragrant. This step enhances the flavor but is optional.

2. Make the pesto:

In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic, nutritional yeast, olive oil, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides if needed.

3. Add the creaminess:

Add the coconut milk and blend again until the pesto is smooth and creamy. You can adjust the consistency by adding a bit more coconut milk if needed.

4. Season to taste:

Taste the pesto and season with salt and pepper to your preference. You can also add more lemon juice for brightness or more garlic for a stronger flavor.

5. Serve:

Toss the creamy pesto with your favorite pasta, drizzle over roasted vegetables, or use it as a spread for sandwiches or wraps.

This Creamy Pesto Sauce is a perfect dairy-free alternative, with the richness from the coconut milk and the fresh, vibrant flavor of basil. Enjoy!