Bright & Herby Spinach Arugula Pesto

6/18/20252 min read

If you’ve been looking for that one sauce to elevate everything on your summer table, meet your new go-to: Spinach & Arugula Pesto.

This vibrant green sauce is bold, fresh, and just a little bit peppery—thanks to the perfect blend of baby spinach, arugula, and toasted sunflower seeds. It’s dairy-optional, takes under 10 minutes to make, and is endlessly versatile. Think of it as summer in a jar.

Ingredients:

  • 1½ cups baby spinach

  • ½ cup arugula

  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (for a cheesy, dairy-free boost)

  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil

  • ¼ cup sunflower seeds

  • 3 cloves garlic

  • 1 tsp sesame oil (adds depth and nuttiness)

  • ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan (optional but delicious)

  • Juice of ½ lemon

  • Black pepper to taste

Note: Feel free to add a pinch of sea salt or a few red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Directions:

  1. Add all ingredients to a food processor or blender.

  2. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.

  3. Adjust with more olive oil or lemon juice for your desired consistency.

  4. Taste and season to your liking.

  5. Store in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Why This Pesto Belongs in Your Summer Rotation

  • No fancy ingredients: No pine nuts or specialty cheeses required. Just fresh greens and pantry staples.

  • Customizable: Vegan-friendly if you skip the parmesan, gluten-free, and flexible for a variety of diets.

  • So flavorful: The arugula brings a peppery kick, while lemon and sesame oil add depth.

  • Saves time: Whip it up in minutes and transform any basic dish into something special.

How to Use Spinach & Arugula Pesto

This isn’t just a pasta sauce—it’s a summer staple. Try it:

  • 🌱 Tossed with warm pasta and a splash of starchy pasta water

  • 🥖 Spread over sourdough or inside grilled cheese sandwiches

  • 🍤 Drizzled over grilled shrimp, chicken, or seasonal vegetables

  • 🥗 Mixed into salad dressings or grain bowls

  • 🍳 Swirled into scrambled eggs or dolloped on top of roasted potatoes

📌 Save This Recipe for Later

This herby green pesto is the perfect quick-fix for busy weeknights and a showstopper for your next garden dinner party. You’ll find yourself making it on repeat—and finding new ways to enjoy every last spoonful.

✨ Pro tip: Freeze extra in ice cube trays so you always have some on hand.

🛍️ Kitchen Tools You’ll Love:

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