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basil pesto in a glass jar

Lightened-Up Creamy Avocado Basil Pesto (no oil added)

A lightened up pesto without any added oil! The secret is using an avocado to get a creamy texture that's unbelievable!
Course Condiments, Gluten Free, Grain Free, Sauce, Vegetarian
Cuisine American, Italian
Keyword avocado basil pesto, easy, homemade
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 108 kcal
Author Monique Volz of AmbitiousKitchen.com

Ingredients

  • 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves
  • 1/2 large ripe avocado
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 tablespoons pine nuts
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons water, plus more if necessary
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • sea salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Add basil, avocado, garlic, pine nuts and lemon juice to a food processor and pulse for 20 seconds or until pesto is chopped. Add in water and process again until completely smooth. You may need to add more water to get it to your desired consistency; I like mine a little on the thicker side. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the cheese.

  2. Store in an airtight container or sealed mason jar and refrigerate. Pesto is best if used within a few days, otherwise you can freeze it for several months. Makes 1 cup, or 2-4 servings depending on what it's used for.

Recipe Notes

Toss in 1/2 cup spinach for extra nutrition

You can omit the pine nuts, but I think they add a nice flavor.

Nutrition Facts
Lightened-Up Creamy Avocado Basil Pesto (no oil added)
Amount Per Serving (1 serving (based on 4))
Calories 108 Calories from Fat 85
% Daily Value*
Fat 9.4g14%
Carbohydrates 3.7g1%
Fiber 2g8%
Protein 3.7g7%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.