Basil Almond Pesto – a Lower Calorie Option

May 1, 2023

This Basil Almond Pesto is a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional pesto sauce. It combines the fresh and fragrant taste of basil with the nuttiness of almonds, creating a unique and delicious flavor. Instead of olive oil, we add Greek yogurt to give it a creamy texture with fewer calories and more protein.

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Simple Basil Almond Pesto

I’m all about recipes that are fuss-free and don’t demand a lengthy ingredient list. It’s probably why sandwiches and I are on such good terms. So, when I’m pressed for time but still crave a hint of sophistication? This basil almond pesto is my jam. Making this pesto couldn’t be easier. First, gather fresh basil, almonds, Greek yogurt, and garlic. Then, add a hint of lemon and salt. Blend everything in a food processor. Need a tweak in consistency? Just adjust the yogurt. Voilà! Quick, delicious, and it adds that elegant touch in no time.

Nutrient-Packed

This pesto isn’t just yummy; it’s loaded with good stuff. First off, basil is a rich source of antioxidants. Then almonds bring in a wealth of healthy fats, fiber, and protein. Lastly, Greek yogurt introduces even more protein and provides a creamy texture without stacking up calories like traditional pesto.

Versatility at Its Best

The beauty of this Basil Almond Pesto is that it is incredibly adaptable. Whether stirring it into your go-to pasta, slathering it on toast, or jazzing up sandwiches, it’s a game-changer. It can be paired with veggies or crackers as a tasty dip for a party. The options are endless – believe me, I’ve experimented in every way imaginable.

Basil Almond Pesto – a Lower Calorie Option

Recipe by Raquel QuevedoDifficulty: Easy
Servings

8

servings
Prep time

5

minutes
Cooking timeminutes
Calories

39

kcal

Each serving is one tablespoon

Ingredients

  • 2 cups basil (40 grams)

  • 1/4 cup almonds (36 grams)

  • 1/3 cup plain yogurt (80 grams) – I use Greek yogurt in this recipe for its creamy texture and protein content, but feel free to substitute with any yogurt, including dairy-free options, to make it your own

  • 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1 clove garlic

Directions

  • Add all ingredients to a food processor.
  • Pulse until an almost smooth consistency. It’s ok to have small pieces of almonds as it gives it a nice crunch.

We provide the information accompanying this recipe for your general knowledge only. We’ve thoroughly tested the recipe to ensure accuracy in measurements and instructions. However, individual results may vary due to the variability in ingredient types, cooking equipment, and preparation methods. You should not treat the nutritional information as dietary or medical advice. It is best to consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for specific health or nutritional concerns. We accept no responsibility for any inaccuracies or misrepresentations of the information we provide. When using this recipe, please remember that cooking is both an art and a science, and we encourage you to trust your judgment and enjoy the culinary journey.

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