Artificial Flavors Free Vegan Cilantro Pesto
Bright, herby, and packed with bold flavor, this cilantro pesto is the kind of condiment that makes everything it touches taste more alive. Toasted pepitas bring a nutty depth and satisfying texture that you'd never guess came from a handful of pumpkin seeds, while fresh lime juice keeps the whole sauce vibrant and punchy. Nutritional yeast steps in to add that savory, almost cheesy richness without any dairy — and it works beautifully here. Every single ingredient is whole and recognizable, so you never have to squint at a label wondering what "natural flavors" or mystery additives are hiding in your sauce. The food processor does most of the heavy lifting, and the slow drizzle of olive oil at the end pulls it all into a luscious, spoonable consistency with just enough texture to feel rustic and real. Toss it with pasta, spread it on toast, or use it as a dip — this pesto is endlessly versatile and genuinely hard to stop eating.
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
6 servings
- ⅓ cup raw pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
- 2 cups fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems, loosely packed
- 1 clove garlic, peeled
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 1 lime)
- ¼ tsp salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Toast the pepitas in a small dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they begin to pop and turn golden, about 2–3 minutes. Watch closely, as they can brown quickly. Transfer to a plate and let cool for 2 minutes.
- 2
Add the toasted pepitas, cilantro, garlic, nutritional yeast, lime juice, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to a food processor. Pulse 8–10 times until the mixture is coarsely chopped and roughly combined.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!