Creamy Arugula & Cashew Pesto

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A silky, nutty pesto with peppery arugula and cashews for a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with pasta or vegetables. This italian-inspired quick meals (vegan (optional)) ready in about 25 minutes blends Arugula, Garlic cloves, Extra virgin olive oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 200 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 25 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 200 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a food processor, combine arugula, garlic, and lemon juice. Pulse until the leaves are finely chopped.
  2. Step 2: Add cashews and process until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
  3. Step 3: With the motor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  4. Step 4: Fold in Parmesan. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Creamy Arugula & Cashew Pesto take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (25 min prep + 0 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Creamy Arugula & Cashew Pesto?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Creamy Arugula & Cashew Pesto?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Creamy Arugula & Cashew Pesto for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Creamy Arugula & Cashew Pesto vegan (optional)?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegan (optional) based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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