Why is it important to soak the cashews for this pesto?

Soaking the cashews for 30 minutes or more softens them significantly, which is crucial for achieving the incredibly smooth and creamy texture of this pesto when blended with their soaking water.

What role does nutritional yeast play in this cashew pesto?

Nutritional yeast is included to impart a savory, cheesy flavor to the pesto, providing a dairy-free alternative to traditional Parmesan cheese.

Can I adjust the amount of olive oil in this recipe?

The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of olive oil, which contributes to the pesto's emulsification and smooth consistency; reducing it might result in a thicker or less spreadable pesto.

How should I store any leftover Cashew Pesto?

Store any leftover Cashew Pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. You can also pour a thin layer of olive oil on top to help prevent browning.

Is a high-speed blender necessary for this recipe?

While a high-speed blender will achieve the smoothest result quickly, any standard blender or food processor should work to blend the soaked cashews and other ingredients until smooth, as specified in the steps.

7 years ago

Cashew Pesto
[Vegan]

Name: Cashew Pesto [Vegan]
Cook time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup cashews soaked in 1/2 cup water (30 + min); 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 cup fresh basil; 1 clove garlic; 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast; juice of 1/2 lemon; salt and pepper to taste

KG By: Kristen Genton

Author Bio

Kristen Genton is the blogger behind Good Habits and Guilty Pleasures. Growing up in seven... Read More

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Vibrant green cashew pesto, freshly blended and served in a small white bowl, garnished with a fresh basil leaf and a drizzle of olive oil.

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Discover more recipes with these ingredients

Cashew Pesto [Vegan]

Dairy Free

This Cashew Pesto is so easy to make and absolutely delicious! All you have to do is blend soaked cashews with olive oil, basil, garlic, and nutritional yeast together. Voila! A tasty cashew pesto in a matter of minutes! It's great for big bowl of fresh pasta, but you can... Read More

Ingredients You Need for Cashew Pesto [Vegan]

1/2 cup cashews soaked in 1/2 cup water (30 + min)
1/4 cup olive oil
1 cup fresh basil
1 clove garlic
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
juice of 1/2 lemon
salt and pepper to taste

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How to Prepare Cashew Pesto [Vegan]

Soak the cashews in 1/2 a cup of water for 30 minutes or more (longer = softer and creamier cashews). Do not drain water out.
Add everything into a blender and blend until smooth. Serve!