Description
Fresh, vibrant, and full of bold green flavor, this Vegan Wild Garlic Pesto Pasta is the ultimate springtime comfort dish. Made with seasonal wild garlic, creamy nuts, and olive oil, it’s a quick and easy meal that tastes gourmet but comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a plant-based pro or just pesto curious, this dish is light, garlicky, and utterly satisfying.
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Ingredients
For the Pasta:
250 g pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or linguine work well)
Salted water for boiling
For the Wild Garlic Pesto:
50 g wild garlic (ramsons), rinsed and roughly chopped
30 g walnuts, pine nuts, or cashews (lightly toasted if preferred)
3 tbsp nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
½ lemon, juiced
60 ml (¼ cup) extra virgin olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp water (optional, to loosen if needed)
Optional Toppings & Add-Ins:
Cherry tomatoes (fresh or roasted)
Vegan parmesan or extra nutritional yeast
Toasted seeds or nuts
Fresh arugula or spinach for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.
Step 2: Make the Wild Garlic Pesto
In a food processor, combine wild garlic, nuts, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Pulse a few times, then slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending until smooth.
If needed, add 1–2 tbsp water or reserved pasta water to thin it to your preferred consistency.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Pesto
Return the drained pasta to the warm pot (off the heat).
Add the pesto and a splash of reserved pasta water.
Toss well until the pasta is coated in creamy green goodness.
Step 4: Serve
Divide into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes—roasted cherry tomatoes, vegan cheese, or extra nuts.
Serve warm, or enjoy cold as a pasta salad the next day!
Notes
Use fresh, young wild garlic – It’s milder and sweeter
Toast your nuts – Adds depth and enhances flavor
Save that pasta water – Helps make the sauce silky
Don’t overblend – Pesto is best slightly textured, not too smooth
Add veggies – Roasted zucchini, asparagus, or peas make it a meal
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Cuisine: Vegan / European Fusion