Fish Free Vegan Cilantro Pesto
Bright, herby, and punchy with citrus, this cilantro pesto is the kind of condiment that makes everything it touches taste more alive. Toasted pepitas give it a nutty depth and satisfying body, standing in beautifully for the pine nuts you'd find in a classic version — no fish, no dairy, no compromise on flavor. Nutritional yeast adds a subtle savory richness that rounds out the lime and garlic without any animal-derived ingredients anywhere in the mix. The food processor does most of the heavy lifting, and a slow drizzle of good olive oil brings it all together into a thick, spoonable sauce with just enough texture to feel rustic and real. A pinch of red pepper flakes is optional, but highly recommended if you want a little heat sneaking up on you at the end. Slather it on grain bowls, toss it with pasta, spread it on toast, or use it as a dipping sauce — this pesto is endlessly versatile and keeps well in the fridge for whenever the craving hits.
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!