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Healthy Hemp Heart Pesto Recipe

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A vibrant, creamy, nut-free pesto made with hemp hearts that offers a fresh, rich flavor perfect for pasta, roasted veggies, or sandwiches. Quick and easy to prepare in under 10 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
  • 1/2 cup hemp hearts
  • 2 large garlic cloves, peeled
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, omit for vegan)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1–2 tablespoons water (optional, to thin pesto if needed)

Instructions

  1. Rinse about 2 cups of fresh basil leaves under cold water and pat dry thoroughly.
  2. In a food processor, add basil, 1/2 cup hemp hearts, 2 peeled garlic cloves, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Pulse a few times to create a coarse mixture.
  3. Pour in 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice and slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil while the processor runs on low speed. Stop to scrape down the sides if needed.
  4. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Pulse briefly to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
  5. If pesto is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons water or more olive oil and pulse until desired creamy but spreadable texture is reached.
  6. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired and pulse briefly.
  7. Transfer pesto to a clean jar or airtight container. Drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning if storing. Refrigerate and use within 4-5 days.

Notes

Use fresh basil and good-quality olive oil for best flavor. Toast hemp hearts lightly on low heat for deeper flavor. Avoid overprocessing to prevent bitterness. Store with a thin olive oil layer on top to prevent oxidation. Can be frozen in ice cube trays for convenience.

Nutrition

Keywords: hemp heart pesto, nut-free pesto, healthy pesto, vegan pesto option, quick pesto recipe, basil pesto, dairy-free pesto

Find it online: https://zoeplate.com/healthy-hemp-heart-pesto-recipe-5-easy-nut-free-ways-to-make-it-perfect/