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Asian Pesto tossed in some noodles with red pepper and sesame seeds on top served in a white bowl with chopsticks

Asian Pesto

5 from 13 votes
This easy Asian Pesto blends bold flavors like green onions and toasted sesame oil for a fresh, versatile sauce you’ll love.
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Prep Time:10 minutes
Total Time:10 minutes
Course: Brunch, Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: Asian
Keyword: 30-minutes, asian sauce, pesto
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 123kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed)
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (optional for fusion flair)
  • 4 green onions (white ends removed)
  • 2 inch piece fresh ginger peeled and chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1/4 cup neutral oil (like avocado)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)(low-sodium)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (plus more for garnish)
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 small Thai chili or dash of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  • In a food processor or blender, add cilantro, basil (if using), green onions, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, neutral oil, soy sauce, vinegar or lime juice, sesame seeds, and any optional ingredients.
    1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, 4 green onions, 2 inch piece fresh ginger, 2 cloves garlic, 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil, 1/4 cup neutral oil, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice, 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds, 1 tsp honey or maple syrup, 1 small Thai chili or dash of red pepper flakes
  • Blend until mostly smooth but still textured. Taste and adjust — more soy sauce for salt, vinegar/lime for tang, or honey/maple for sweetness.
  • Use immediately or refrigerate in an airtight jar for up to 5 days. Drizzle a thin layer of oil on top to keep it vibrant green.

Notes

  • Use fresh herbs for the best flavor and vibrant color.
  • Adjust the chili amount to suit your spice preference.
  • Substitute oils or herbs based on what you have on hand.
  • Great as a marinade, sauce, or dip—get creative!
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container with oil on top to keep fresh.
  • Freeze in small portions for easy use later.

Nutrition

Serving: 6servings | Calories: 123kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Sodium: 160mg | Potassium: 75mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 365IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 28mg | Iron: 1mg