Chestnut Free Vegan Cilantro Pesto
Bright, herby, and packed with bold flavor, this cilantro pesto is the kind of sauce that makes you want to drizzle it on absolutely everything. Toasted pepitas bring a nutty depth and satisfying texture that makes this recipe feel rich and grounded without relying on pine nuts or any tree nuts whatsoever — a real win for anyone navigating nut-related restrictions. Nutritional yeast adds a savory, almost cheesy quality that keeps this fully plant-based while still tasting indulgent. A hit of fresh lime juice lifts the whole thing, balancing the garlic and the gentle heat from optional red pepper flakes into something genuinely crave-worthy. The food processor does most of the work, and the whole process comes together in just a few minutes once your pepitas are toasted and cooled. Use it as a pasta sauce, a grain bowl topping, a sandwich spread, or a dipping sauce for roasted vegetables — honestly, the possibilities are hard to stop at. Keep a jar in the fridge and you'll find yourself reaching for it all week long.
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!