Walnut Free Basil-Pesto Arugula Salad
Bright, peppery arugula meets a deeply fragrant basil pesto in a salad that feels both effortless and a little impressive. The pesto gets its body from tiger nut flour instead of the pine nuts or walnuts you'd typically find in a classic version, making it a smart swap that doesn't sacrifice any of that rich, herby depth. Crisp radishes and cool cucumber slices add crunch and freshness to every bite, while a simple drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice keeps the greens lively before the pesto goes in. The whole thing comes together in a food processor and a single salad bowl — no cooking required. A finishing scatter of torn basil leaves pulls the whole dish together visually and flavor-wise. Serve it immediately so the arugula stays crisp and the pesto stays vibrant.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the pesto
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp tiger nut flour
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
For the salad
- 5 oz baby arugula (about 6 cups loosely packed)
- 4 radishes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced into half-moons
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- flaky sea salt, to taste
For serving
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the 2 cups packed basil leaves, garlic cloves, tiger nut flour, 2 tbsp lemon juice, and fine sea salt in a food processor. Pulse 8–10 times until the mixture is coarsely chopped and the garlic is broken down.
- 2
With the processor running, stream in the 1/3 cup olive oil in a slow, steady pour until the pesto comes together into a thick, spoonable paste — it will be slightly textured, not completely smooth. Scrape down the sides and pulse once more to incorporate. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!