It’s unlike any other pesto.
Because there aren’t any pine nuts.
Instead I tossed in some sunflower seeds.
A pinch of nutritional yeast.
And sesame seeds.
O the flavor.
Just wait.
I caught myself spooning it into my mouth to taste and got a bit carried away. Yes, it’s that good.
Despite not feeling 100% up to par these past few weeks, I rallied last night and made this pesto to enjoy on my flight.
The secret ingredient?
Sunflower seeds.
I adore sunflower seeds because they lend such a velvety richness to dishes. They go absolutely perfectly with the garliciness of this pesto-creamy, garlicy, delicious!
Did I mention this dish counts as a vegetable?
That’s right; it’s a nice bunch of spinach along with sweet onions and you could even get crazy with some extra garlic if you’re feelin’ the groove.
Serve it alongside some gluten-free crackers this holiday season- it’s a good decision.
Yet again, another fabulously easy n’ fun recipe that’s easy to serve when entertaining or to enjoy alone atop tofu, rice, quinoa or gluten-free toast.
Grab a spoon and get to work.
You’ll like this one.
I just know it.
Spinach Sunflower Seed Pesto
Gluten-Free and Vegan
Serves 6
- 2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup sweet white onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, sliced
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 2 Tbsp. nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1 tsp. black sesame seeds
- 1 tsp. white sesame seeds
- 1/6 tsp. sea salt
Directions
- In a large skillet, heat oil, onions and garlic, cook for 2-3 minutes or until onions caramelize.
- Add spinach; cook for another 3 minutes or until spinach is wilted.
- Transfer spinach mixture to a food processor; add remaining ingredients.
- Pulse until smooth.
- Transfer to a serving bowl.
- Serve atop gluten-free crackers, with crudites or as a spread atop toast.
- Enjoy.
I’m off to LA for some recipe development. Have a fabulous weekend, my foodies.
Hi Amie
Do you know if I can froze this pesto?
I haven’t tried to do that Linda. Try and let me know! oxx
I liked your post on “snacks” . Are they regulars of yours?
Also, can you do a post on “meals” just like your snacks? Maybe stuff that you choose from on a daily basis? (It is always nice to learn more about the blogger and their food choices on a daily basis – very inspiring).
Perhaps a listing of 2-3 under headlines of “breakfast” , “lunch” , and “dinner”.
Thank you Marsha; great to hear from you! I have done a few snacks posts on my blog and will continue to do more in the future. I will also work on a meals post for you where I can compile a few great recipes and tips for easy gluten-free and Clean meals. Thanks so much; have a great night!
It would be fun to see a day in your life!
Thanks Marsha; SHAPE Magazine just did a feature on me in the ‘Day in My Life’ if you’d like to check it out on my Press Page. I’ll be sure to note these requests and put together a post of yummy eats- I don’t post about everything I eat as I think it’s important for everyone to eat what makes them feel good and not eat what everyone else is eating because it’s a fad. Great tip and thanks again; check out the SHAPE article and let me know your thoughts.
I am looking forward to seeing the new recipes you develop in California!
Awe; thanks Alysse! Happy Holidays darling….lovin’ this warm Cali weather…
What a great twist on standard pesto! I love it.
Thanks Mattie; hope you enjoy it! Have a lovely holiday season.
oxo