Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy for details.

I’ve recently decided to revive this blog of mine, and it feels so good to be back! Lately, I’ve also been sharing quick recipe videos over on TikTok, which has been such a fun way to connect with fellow food lovers.

Today I’m bringing you one of my new favorites: a vegan tofu pesto. It’s creamy, bright, and packed with flavor. Plus, thanks to the tofu, it’s also a delicious way to add extra protein to your favorite pasta, spread on toast, or even enjoy straight from the spoon. If you’re looking for a plant-based twist on classic pesto that’s both nutritious and versatile, this one’s definitely worth a try.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to throw together. A quick blitz in the blender and you’ve got a protein-packed sauce that feels a little more satisfying than traditional pesto.

Not only that, but it’s also a great make-ahead option. In fact, you can easily keep it in the fridge for several days and pull it out whenever you need a quick meal or snack.

And while pasta is my go-to pairing, don’t stop there! Try this vegan tofu pesto as a sandwich spread, a dip for veggies, or even a topping for grain bowls. It also makes a great base for tarts (like my veggie spiral tart!).

Check out the recipe below, give it a try, and let me know what you think!

Why you’ll love this recipe

Rich, creamy, and brimming with the flavor of fresh basil
Higher in protein and more filling than regular pesto, thanks to tofu
Completely plant-based and vegan-friendly
Perfect on toast, stirred into pasta, or enjoyed straight from the spoon
Quick and easy to make, with no cooking required

What you’ll need

Tofu – Adds creaminess and protein to this recipe
Fresh basil – The star ingredient, which provides a bright burst of flavor
Walnuts – Loaded with heart-healthy fats
Garlic – Ramps up the flavor and aroma
Nutritional yeast – Brings a cheesy, umami flavor
Olive oil – Adds smooth richness
Garlic – Boosts the flavor and aroma
Lemon juice – Balanced out the richness

Recipe tips

Press the tofu well to remove excess water for a creamier consistency.

Blend in stages to achieve a smooth, even texture.

Adjust the consistency as needed by adding extra olive oil or lemon juice.

How to make this recipe

Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Spread over toast, stir into pasta, or enjoy by the spoonful!

FAQ

You can, but it may end up a bit thinner. Using extra-firm tofu helps make it more creamy, smooth, and spreadable.

Yes! Pine nuts, cashews, and almonds are great alternatives, though they may slightly change the flavor of your final product.

Spread it on toast or sandwiches, stir it into pasta or grain bowls, use it as a dip for veggies, drizzle over roasted vegetables, or even enjoy it straight from the spoon!

Shop the tools

Join the List

More recipes like this

Did you try this recipe?

Leave your review below

Print Pin

Creamy Vegan Tofu Pesto

Creamy, bright, and packed with plant-based protein, this vegan tofu pesto is a flavorful twist on a familiar favorite. Blend it up in minutes and use it to jazz up pasta, spread on sandwiches, or scoop it straight from the jar — you’ll want to put it on everything!

Keyword pesto, tofu, vegan

Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Servings 8

Ingredients

14 oz extra-firm tofu drained and pressed
2 cups basil
1/4 cup walnuts
3 cloves garlic
1/2 cup nutritional yeast
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 lemon, juiced
Salt
Pepper

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Spread over toast, stir into pasta, or enjoy by the spoonful!