Dairy free arugula pesto blends leafy greens, walnuts, miso and olive oil for antioxidant rich healthy fats and detox support. A vegan nutrient dense sauce for vegetables and protein!!
Pesto is the besto (sorry). For an alternative to basil pesto, try this arugula pesto. It’s dairy free and vegan. For a creamier version, see my cilantro pesto recipe here.
I had a surplus of some exceptionally peppery and big, leafy arugula the other day and needed to find a good way to utilize it. I love arugula – it’s a wonderful, spicy leafy green to eat raw and add to mixed salad greens. Try it with roasted beets and goat cheese or alone, drizzled with olive oil and aged balsamic.
Arugula is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, folic acid, calcium, manganese, and magnesium. It contains a group of anticancer compounds that have potent antioxidant activity, and stimulate the body’s natural detoxifying enzymes. Arugula and other deep greens contain phytochemicals such as chlorophyll, essential for oxygenating the body and flooding it with nutrients.
Because I avoid dairy, I needed to create a dairy-free pesto recipe. I LOVE pesto, and it’s great the traditional way with basil, pine nuts, and fresh grated parmesan cheese. Check out this alternative, using miso and walnuts. Delicious.
Dairy Free Arugula Pesto Recipe
- 2 cups arugula leaves, de-stemmed and packed (i also threw in a little fresh basil i had left over; can add flat leaf parsley and/or cilantro too)
- 6 garlic cloves, lightly roasted in a pan for about 10 minutes for a milder flavor. Using raw garlic can overpower the other subtle flavors, but you can throw in 1-2 raw cloves if you don’t want to roast.
1/3 to 1/2 cup olive oil - 2 tbsp white miso (or you can use nutritional yeast as a sub)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (toasting them quickly beforehand will deepen the flavor)
Place everything in food processor and blend, drizzling olive oil in. Remove and add salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste.
Serve over roasted vegetables, spaghetti squash, Â chicken, hamburgers, or scrambled eggs. Enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes arugula pesto different from traditional pesto?
Arugula pesto swaps basil for peppery arugula and skips parmesan for dairy free depth. White miso or nutritional yeast adds savory flavor, while walnuts replace pine nuts. The result is bold, nutrient dense, and rich in healthy fats without using cheese.
Why roast the garlic before blending?
Roasting garlic mellows its sharp flavor and brings out natural sweetness. Raw garlic can overpower greens and nuts. Light cooking balances the peppery arugula and creates a smoother, more rounded taste in the finished pesto.
What nutrients does arugula provide?
Arugula delivers vitamins A and C, folate, calcium, magnesium, and manganese. It contains chlorophyll and phytonutrients that support detox pathways and cellular protection. These antioxidants help reduce inflammation and support oxygen use in tissues.
Can this pesto be made creamier without dairy?
Yes. Adjusting the amount of extra virgin olive oil changes texture. Less oil creates a thicker spread, while more oil produces a smoother sauce. Nutritional yeast adds richness and subtle creaminess without dairy ingredients.
What foods pair well with arugula pesto?
Arugula pesto complements roasted vegetables, spaghetti squash, grilled chicken, burgers, eggs, and whole grain alternatives. Its savory profile enhances both plant based and animal proteins. It also works as a dip or spread for added flavor.
Why does Mary Vance suggest miso or nutritional yeast?
Mary Vance recommends white miso or nutritional yeast to add umami flavor without dairy. These ingredients provide depth similar to cheese while supporting gut friendly and plant forward meals. They blend smoothly into sauces and spreads.
How does Mary Vance highlight the health benefits of greens?
Mary Vance emphasizes that deep leafy greens like arugula supply antioxidants, minerals, and detox supportive compounds. She notes their role in delivering oxygen supporting nutrients. Blending greens into pesto makes daily intake simple and flavorful.
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