Cozy Up with This Simple almond pesto dip

Why You’ll Love Almond Pesto Dip

There’s something magical about the combination of fresh basil, toasted almonds, and rich olive oil. This almond pesto dip brings that magic to life in a creamy, nutty, and herbaceous spread that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, prepping a weekday snack, or looking for a vibrant addition to your appetizer board, this dip delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.

Unlike traditional pesto, this version uses almonds instead of pine nuts, giving it a slightly sweeter, earthier profile. It’s a fantastic way to use up fresh basil from your garden or local market. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it as a dip, spread it on sandwiches, or toss it with pasta. The texture is smooth yet hearty, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.

Need more dip inspiration? You might also enjoy this easy black bean dip for a protein-packed alternative.

Ingredients to make Almond Basil Pesto

To make this almond basil pesto, you’ll need a few fresh and pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed – Use sweet basil for the best flavor. Avoid Thai or lemon basil for this recipe.
• 1/4 cup whole almonds, toasted – Toasting enhances the nutty flavor. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes.
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated is best for texture and taste. Avoid pre-shredded varieties if possible.
• 1 clove garlic, minced – Adds a sharp, savory kick. Adjust based on your garlic preference.
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt – Helps balance the flavors. You can adjust to taste later.
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper – Adds subtle heat and depth.
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil – Choose a high-quality oil for the best flavor.
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice – Brightens the dip and balances the richness.
• 2 tbsp water (as needed, to adjust consistency) – Optional, but helpful if the dip is too thick.

Time needed to make Almond Pesto Dip

This almond pesto dip is a quick and easy recipe that comes together in under 15 minutes. Here’s the breakdown:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (just toasting almonds if needed)
• Total Time: 10–15 minutes

Looking for more quick dips? Try this healthy Mexican layer dip for a colorful, layered option.

Quick Steps to Make Almond Green Sauce

Step 1

Place basil, toasted almonds, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a food processor.

Step 2

Pulse several times until everything is finely chopped and well combined.

Step 3

With the motor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth paste.

Step 4

Add lemon juice and pulse again to incorporate.

Step 5

If the dip is too thick, blend in up to 2 tablespoons of water, one at a time, until desired consistency is reached.

Step 6

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or lemon juice, if needed.

Step 7

Transfer to a serving bowl and serve immediately, or cover and chill for up to 2 days. Stir before serving.

Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks

For a smoother almond pesto spread, soak the almonds in warm water for 10 minutes before toasting. Want a dairy-free version? Swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast. If you’re out of basil, try a mix of parsley and spinach for a milder flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning. This dip also freezes well—just thaw and stir before serving.

Is Almond Pesto Dip healthy and nutritious ?

Yes, almond pesto dip is a flavorful and nutrient-rich option that fits well into many healthy eating plans. It’s packed with healthy fats, antioxidants, and essential vitamins. The almonds provide plant-based protein and fiber, while basil adds anti-inflammatory compounds and vitamin K.

Each serving (about 2 tablespoons) contains approximately:

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 11g (mostly heart-healthy monounsaturated fats)
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 1g

It’s naturally low in carbs and gluten-free, making it a great option for those following keto or gluten-free diets. If you’re looking for more veggie-packed sides, check out these vegetable side dishes that pair beautifully with dips like this.

For a sweet almond-based treat, this almond pound cake is a must-try. Or if you’re craving something creamy and savory, this spinach artichoke dip is a classic favorite.

Want to keep things plant-based? This vegan burrito bowl is another wholesome option to add to your meal plan.

Can I make Almond Pesto Dip healthier and still delicious?

Absolutely! There are several easy swaps to make this almond pesto dip even more nutritious without sacrificing flavor. For a lower-fat version, reduce the olive oil to 2 tablespoons and add more water or lemon juice to maintain the texture. You can also skip the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free, vegan-friendly option.

Want to go nut-free? Swap almonds for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. This nut-free kale pesto is a great example of how to adapt pesto for allergies.

Looking for more healthy dips? This southwest sweet potato black bean dip is loaded with fiber and flavor. Or try this homemade hummus for a creamy, protein-rich option.

For a lighter party platter, pair this dip with fresh veggies or whole grain crackers. You can also serve it with baked pita chips or use it as a sandwich spread to cut down on mayo or butter.

How to Serve Almond Pesto Dip?

This basil almond dip is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a dip with sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or bell pepper strips. It also pairs beautifully with toasted baguette slices or pita chips. For a gluten-free option, go with rice crackers or veggie sticks.

Hosting a party? Add it to a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, olives, and cured meats. It also makes a great sandwich spread—try it on a turkey panini or veggie wrap. You can even stir it into warm pasta for a quick pesto pasta dish, similar to this pesto pasta salad.

Pair it with drinks like this sparkling vodka cranberry with lime or a refreshing blackberry cucumber skinny mojito for a complete appetizer experience.

For more Italian-inspired ideas, browse these Italian-inspired recipes that complement the dip’s Mediterranean flavors.

Avoid These Mistakes

Even a simple recipe like almond pesto dip can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here are a few common pitfalls:

• Using raw almonds: Always toast your almonds. It deepens the flavor and improves texture.
• Over-processing: Pulse instead of blending continuously. You want a dip, not a puree.
• Skipping the lemon juice: It adds brightness and balances the richness of the oil and cheese.
• Not adjusting consistency: If it’s too thick, don’t hesitate to add water a tablespoon at a time.
• Storing improperly: Always cover with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent browning.

For more creamy dip ideas, check out this hot crab dip or this creamy spinach artichoke dip.

Need more healthy snack ideas? This almond pesto dip recipe is a great place to start, or try this layered Mexican dip for a colorful twist.

The best way to store leftover Almond Pesto Dip

To keep your almond pesto dip fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last up to 2 days. Before sealing, pour a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent oxidation and browning.

Planning to make it ahead? You can freeze it! Use a freezer-safe container or silicone ice cube trays. Thaw in the fridge overnight and stir well before serving. If it separates slightly, just give it a quick blend or stir.

Looking for more make-ahead dips? This artichoke dip is another great option. Or try this cookie dough dip for a sweet treat that stores well.

For more savory ideas, this easy black bean dip and this sweet potato black bean dip are both fridge-friendly and perfect for prepping ahead.

Ready to give Almond Pesto Dip a try?

This almond pesto dip is a flavor-packed, easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, nutty undertones, and fresh basil aroma, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, dipping veggies, or tossing it with pasta, it brings a burst of flavor to every bite.

Don’t forget to explore more dip ideas like this almond pesto dip recipe or this layered Mexican dip. For a refreshing drink pairing, try this red sangria or a vodka cranberry cocktail.

Now that you’ve got the recipe, it’s time to grab your ingredients and blend up a batch. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use roasted almonds instead of toasted?

Yes, roasted almonds work well too. Just make sure they’re unsalted to avoid overpowering the dip. Toasting your own gives more control over flavor and texture.

Is almond pesto dip gluten-free?

Yes, this dip is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free crackers or veggies if you’re avoiding gluten entirely.

Can I make this dip vegan?

Absolutely. Just replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying.

How long does almond pesto dip last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container. Add a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning.

Can I freeze almond pesto dip?

Yes, it freezes well. Use ice cube trays or small containers. Thaw in the fridge and stir before serving. The texture may change slightly, but the flavor remains delicious.

You May Also Love

• Easy Black Bean Dip
• Healthy Mexican Layer Dip
• Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean Dip
• Vegan Burrito Bowl
• Vegetable Side Dishes
• Red Sangria
• Blackberry Cucumber Skinny Mojito