I LOVE this pumpkin seed pesto! Its loaded with flavor and works great as a substitute for regular pesto which may be heavy in oils and dairy.
For a slightly different, yet equally as delicious, twist on pesto…try this medical medium friendly, pumpkin seed pesto!
I also made this version nut free because I know how many healthy sauces contain nuts to replace dairy. I hope that kids who have allergies to nuts can use this nut free pesto as a substitute in their favorite foods.
Children these days are up against a lot. My children have tons of allergies like your kids might too. I hope to make this journey for them a little easier by providing recipes that are not only delicious but also allergy friendly.
Health Benefits of Pumpkin Seed (Pesto)
According to Medical Medium, pumpkin seeds contain high amounts of vitamin E, B-complex, magnesium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. They are essential for men’s health and nourish the prostate.
They help to lower bad cholesterol in the body and are great for preventing kidney stones and osteoporosis. The most nutritious form is raw pumpkin seeds, which I have linked below in the ingredients.
Muneeza’s Pumpkin Seed Pesto
Equipment
- Blender
Ingredients
- ½ Cup raw pumpkin seeds
- 2 Cups fresh basil
- ¾ Cup water
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (optional, use only if you are relatively healthy)
- 1 lemon juiced
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 tsp onion powder
- sea salt to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Put all the ingredients into a blender cup and mix on high speed.
- If you need to thin out the pesto a bit more, add a little more water.
Check out my other recipes that this pesto pairs really well with my Quick and Dirty Cauliflower Rice. It also goes really well on top of any healthy version of pasta (try Big Green Organic’s Millet Pasta) and pizza.
To your health & happiness,
Muneeza
