Low-Calorie Pesto Sauce Recipe (Light Basil Pesto)

Low-Calorie Pesto Sauce - A Skinny or Light Version of Fresh Basil Pesto

Low-Calorie Pesto Sauce Recipe (Light Basil Pesto)

This Low-Calorie Pesto is a lightened-up version of classic basil pesto. It’s simple to make with just six staple ingredients, and it cuts the calories and fat by half without losing flavor. Great on pasta, sandwiches, bread, eggs — honestly, it’s good on anything.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 5

Total Time 10

Course Appetizer, Condiment, Dip, Marinade, Sauce

Cuisine Italian

Servings tbsp

Calories 39 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed and washed
3 cloves garlic (or 1–2 tbsp jarred garlic)
4 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup pine nuts or other type of nut
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice (fresh or bottled)
6 tbsp water (adjust if basil is still wet)
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Wash basil and set on a kitchen towel to dry.
2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed and washed
2. Add all ingredients to a blender or food processor.
3 cloves garlic (or 1–2 tbsp jarred garlic), 4 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup pine nuts or other type of nut, 1 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp lemon juice (fresh or bottled), 6 tbsp water (adjust if basil is still wet), 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed and washed
3. Blend until smooth.
Store in a jar in the fridge, or freeze in small portions for later.

Notes

This recipe isn't super strict with measurements. I typically eyeball the amount of basil. If I have a bunch that I need to use up, I'll add more. It will just result in a slightly thicker sauce, but it will make more pesto.
I have 10 servings listed on here, but it really varies depending on how you are using the pesto. The recipe will make about 1 cup or a little more.
If my basil is still a little wet from washing it, I'll typically use a little less water. Or, if you want a little thinner sauce, you can add more water as well.
Sometimes the sauce will turn a tiny bit brown on top after a few days of being in the fridge. This is just because of the fresh basil. I either give it a stir in the jar and mix it in, or I'll scoop out the brown.
Definitely enjoy this pesto within 1-2 weeks.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tbsCalories: 39kcalCarbohydrates: 1.7gProtein: 1.7gFat: 3.2gSaturated Fat: 0.8gCholesterol: 3mgSodium: 639mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 0.1g

Keyword basil, dip, easy, gluten-free, healthy, Italian, low-calorie, low-fat, pesto, quick, sauce, vegetarian

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