Ingredients:

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed (about 50 g / 1.75 oz)
  • 1/3 cup raw cashews (50 g / 1.75 oz), soaked for 30 minutes if preferred
  • 2 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (15 g / 0.5 oz)
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil (120 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (15 ml)
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a subtle kick

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Wash basil leaves and peel garlic cloves. If using, soak cashews in warm water for at least 30 minutes to soften.
  2. Combine Base Ingredients: Add basil, cashews, garlic, and nutritional yeast into the food processor. Pulse until roughly chopped.
  3. Add Liquids and Seasoning: With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil and lemon juice until the mixture emulsifies into a creamy paste.
  4. Season: Add salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Pulse a few more times to combine evenly.
  5. Adjust Consistency: If too thick, add a teaspoon of water or more olive oil and blend again until desired consistency is reached.
  6. Taste and Adjust: Taste for seasoning; add more salt, lemon juice, or nutritional yeast as preferred.