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Top down image of spinach cashew pesto in a ceramic bowl on a light gray background with ingredients poking into the edges of the frame

5-Minute Spinach Cashew Pesto


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5 from 1 review

  • Author: Elle Penner, MPH RD
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1/2 cups (12 servings) 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This spinach cashew pesto is a quick, budget-friendly twist on classic pesto. Packed with greens and perfect for meal prep—freeze extras for later!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (226 g) fresh spinach (about 9 loosely packed cups)
  • 3/4 cup (140 g) unsalted cashews, raw or toasted
  • 1 cup (127 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3-4 cloves garlic
  • 2/3 cup olive oil
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about 1 medium lemon)

Instructions

  1. In a food processor, combine all ingredients and pulse until coarsely chopped.
  2. Then, process on high speed until smooth, about 2 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed to ensure even blending.
  3. Enjoy immediately or store for later use (see Storage Instructions above).

Notes

  • If serving over pasta: This recipe makes enough pesto to generously coat 2 pounds of dry pasta (1 ⅓-cup per 1 pound or 500 grams of uncooked pasta).
  • I typically use raw cashews for ease, but toasted cashews will add a nuttier, more intense flavor.
  • Freeze leftovers in an airtight container or ice cube trays for another meal.
  • Prep Time: 5
  • Category: Sauces
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3.2 tablespoons
  • Calories: 184
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 257 mg
  • Fat: 17 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 6 mg