
Bright, herby, and packed with bold flavor, this cilantro pesto is the kind of sauce that makes you want to put it on absolutely everything. 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 thing tasting alive and vibrant. Nutritional yeast adds a subtle savory richness that rounds out the garlic and cilantro without any dairy in sight. Because it's built entirely from plants and whole ingredients, there's zero concern about hidden animal proteins or cross-contact with red meat โ it's naturally safe and genuinely delicious. The food processor does most of the heavy lifting, and the slow drizzle of olive oil at the end gives you that luscious, spoonable consistency. A pinch of red pepper flakes is optional, but highly recommended if you want a little heat sneaking in at the finish. Toss it with pasta, spoon it over roasted vegetables, or use it as a dip โ this pesto earns its place in regular rotation.
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Learn more โ6 servings









Toast the pepitas in a small dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they begin to pop and turn golden, about 2โ3 minutes. Watch closely, as they can brown quickly. Transfer to a plate and let cool for 2 minutes.
Add the toasted pepitas, cilantro, garlic, nutritional yeast, lime juice, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to a food processor. Pulse 8โ10 times until the mixture is coarsely chopped and roughly combined.
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