If you love the flavor of traditional pesto but are looking for a plant-based option, Trader Joe's Vegan Kale, Cashew, and Basil Pesto might just be what you're searching for. This vibrant green sauce offers the bold flavors of basil and garlic, balanced by kale and cashews for a smooth, creamy texture. The pesto is rich without being overly heavy, making it a versatile addition to your pantry, whether you're vegan or just want to switch things up.
At $3.99 for a 6-ounce container, it's an affordable, flavorful, and healthy option for adding some flair to your favorite dishes.
Product Description
Trader Joe's Vegan Kale, Cashew, and Basil Pesto is a dairy-free take on the classic Italian sauce. The traditional Parmesan is replaced with cashews to provide a creamy texture, while the addition of kale adds extra nutrients and a slightly earthy flavor. The bold garlic and basil still shine through, keeping the pesto's flavor profile close to the classic version while offering a plant-based twist. The consistency is smooth and spreadable, making it ideal for tossing with pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or even using as a dip.
Honest Review of Trader Joe's Vegan Kale, Cashew, and Basil Pesto
Flavor: The first thing you'll notice about this vegan pesto is that it doesn't compromise on flavor. The garlic and basil are front and center, providing that classic pesto punch. The kale adds a subtle earthiness that complements the other ingredients without being overpowering. The cashews give the sauce a creamy texture that mimics the richness of traditional pesto, though it has a slightly nuttier flavor. The overall taste is well-balanced, with just enough salt and acidity to bring everything together.
Texture: The texture of this pesto is smooth and creamy, thanks to the cashews. It has a slightly thicker consistency than traditional pesto, but it spreads easily and coats pasta well. The kale adds a bit of heft to the sauce, making it more filling than typical pesto, but without being too heavy.
Overall: This pesto works well in a variety of dishes. It mixes easily with pasta, spreads beautifully on bread, and even makes a great dip for veggies. It also holds up well when heated, so you can mix it into hot dishes without losing flavor or texture. Whether you're vegan or not, this pesto is a versatile ingredient that can be used in countless ways.
Ingredients
Key ingredients include:
- Kale: Adds a nutritious, slightly earthy flavor to the sauce.
- Cashews: Provides the creaminess that replaces the Parmesan in traditional pesto.
- Basil: Offers the classic pesto flavor that's bright and fresh.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps blend the ingredients together.
- Garlic: Brings bold, savory flavor that ties the sauce together.
How to Use Trader Joe's Vegan Kale, Cashew, and Basil Pesto
- Toss with Pasta: This pesto makes a great pasta sauce. Simply toss it with your favorite gluten-free, regular, or vegetable-based pasta for an easy, flavorful meal.
- Spread on Sandwiches or Wraps: Use the pesto as a spread on sandwiches or wraps to add a burst of flavor to your lunch.
- Mix with Veggies: Toss roasted vegetables in the pesto for a quick side dish, or use it as a dip for raw veggies like carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers.
Recipe Suggestions
- Vegan Pesto Pasta: Cook your favorite pasta, then toss it with the pesto and a splash of pasta water to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Top with cherry tomatoes and vegan Parmesan for a complete meal.
- Pesto Pizza: Spread the pesto over a pizza crust instead of tomato sauce, then top with veggies, vegan cheese, or your favorite plant-based toppings for a unique twist on pizza night.
- Pesto Veggie Bowl: Combine the pesto with quinoa or rice, roasted veggies, and a protein like chickpeas or tofu for a nutritious, filling bowl.
FAQs about Trader Joe's Vegan Kale, Cashew, and Basil Pesto
The following are commonly asked questions about this product:
Yes, this pesto is both gluten-free and vegan, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone following a plant-based diet.
Absolutely! The thick, creamy texture makes this pesto perfect for dipping vegetables, crackers, or even spreading on bread.
Once opened, the pesto should be kept in the refrigerator and consumed within 5-7 days for the best flavor and freshness.
After being added to some of Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Ribbons you get:
Conclusion
Trader Joe's Vegan Kale, Cashew, and Basil Pesto is a fantastic plant-based twist on the classic pesto. It manages to capture all the flavors you love-herbaceous basil, earthy kale, and the rich creaminess of cashews-without relying on dairy. Whether you're vegan, dairy-free, or just looking to try something new, this pesto delivers a fresh, vibrant taste that works beautifully in a wide range of dishes. Its versatility makes it a great addition to pasta, sandwiches, salads, or even as a dip. At $3.99, it's a delicious and affordable option that can elevate your meals with minimal effort. While it may not be identical to traditional pesto, its unique combination of flavors makes it a worthy alternative. If you're a fan of pesto but want a lighter, plant-based option, Trader Joe's Vegan Kale, Cashew, and Basil Pesto is a must-try.
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Trader Joe’s Vegan Kale, Cashew, and Basil Pesto
Product Name: Trader Joe’s Vegan Kale, Cashew, and Basil Pesto
Product Description: Trader Joe’s Vegan Kale, Cashew, and Basil Pesto offers rich, plant-based flavor perfect for pasta, sandwiches, and more.
Price: $3.39
Currency: USD
Availability: InStoreOnly
Summary
Trader Joe’s Vegan Kale, Cashew, and Basil Pesto offers rich, plant-based flavor perfect for pasta, sandwiches, and more.
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Taste
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Value
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Worthy of Repurchasing
Pros
- Rich, Bold Flavor: The basil, garlic, and cashews provide a creamy, flavorful sauce that’s a great alternative to traditional pesto.
- Vegan and Gluten-Free: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking for a plant-based option.
- Versatile: Works well as a pasta sauce, sandwich spread, dip, or in a variety of other recipes.
- Affordable: At $3.99, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy a high-quality, plant-based pesto.
Cons
- Thicker Texture: The texture is slightly thicker than traditional pesto, which may not appeal to everyone.
- Kale Flavor: While subtle, the kale may not be to everyone’s taste, especially if you prefer a more classic basil-forward pesto.
- A Bit Flat: This may benefit from some nutritional yeast, parmesan cheese, or a little bit of acid
judilyn says
Very tempting! And you are right about making it oneself. I am a total advocate of DIY - but gotta throw in with you on this one! Seems like a good bargain to me.
Virtual hugs,
Judie
stella__who says
I made brown rice spiral noodles, added chopped walnuts, and defrosted some broccoli crowns left them crunchy, Topped it with a can of albacore tuna. It was heaven. I froze the left over pesto in small baggies so it didn’t go to waste.
Julie says
May have to try it. At least it has less sodium than TJ's other pesto products.
anitaliandish says
I love pesto and usually make it myself, but this is a great deal and really tasty. Thanks Trader Joes!
becomebetty says
Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Ttrockwood Ttrockwood says
I was SO excited to find this!! I’m a lactose intolerant vegetarian (who hates eggs) so i get really excited about new vegan products at TJs! I don’t think there is any way i could even use the full 1/4 serving , so the nutritional stats come down by at least half for what i used. I used it mixed with some roasted carrots and cauliflower as part of a grain bowl with quinoa and that was delicious. Also just used a spoon of it on a bowl of beans and greens soup with nutritional yeast and that was really awesome.
Kathy says
I tried this pesto sauce a few weeks ago because of your post and it was life changing!! Seriously, I love this stuff and I stock up on it each week! Thank you for just a thorough and honest review of this!
Kind Regards,
Kathy
becomebetty says
Hey Kathy! Glad my review could help you. That vegan pesto was the best thing I tried last year. Thanks for taking the time to stop by to read my blog and share your thoughts!
bren says
i use it as a spread on sandwiches but am looking for other ideas. ?
becomebetty says
Hi Bren! Thanks for stopping by and asking the question. I've used mine for pasta and under an avocado toast but I think you might find this link helpful for inspiration: https://www.buzzfeed.com/lincolnthompson/28-of-the-most-delicious-things-you-can-do-with-pesto
Bonnie says
I loved it! I never know how long I can save something like this in the fridge once opened. There’s a date but I figure that’s the date to use by if unopened. I wish the container would say.
becomebetty says
Hey Bonnie! I'd only let it sit there for 2-3 days at most. But I agree, I wished the container would say that. Thanks so much for stopping by!
Jessica Flick says
I was pup/house sitting and they had some so i cooked it with scrambled eggs and added feta on top. So good. Anyway ran across this blog looking for the price and just thought I'd contribute way after the fact to meet you know how good my random concoction was lol.
becomebetty says
I love hearing how readers use certain items. Thanks for sharing!