5 Minute Garlic-Free Pesto Sauce (Low FODMAP)

This low FODMAP pesto is both garlic free and delicious – yes it’s possible to be both! It’s also quick to whip up in 5 minutes in a high-powered blender or food processor – you can’t beat the convenience! I love to serve this no-garlic pesto as a sauce with all kinds of different low FODMAP foods, and it even freezes well to use at a later time. I personally like to use it as a Low FODMAP pasta sauce!

Building Up Your ‘FODMAP Basics’

When following the low FODMAP diet, it’s a great idea to make batches of some key FODMAP basics. This can really make your life easier. It is especially helpful to have alternatives for sauces, spice blends, and seasonings that commonly contain high FODMAP ingredients. Add this low FODMAP pesto to your FODMAP friendly arsenal alongside garlic-infused oil, taco seasoning, low FODMAP tomato sauce, and delicious dips like low FODMAP tzatziki and low FODMAP hummus.

Is store bought pesto low FODMAP?

When I think of pesto, I immediately think of two things – basil and garlic. Almost every store bought pesto product will contain both. Garlic in particular can be a problem for those who follow a low FODMAP diet as it contains fructans, a type of FODMAP that commonly contributes to bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and/or bowel changes in those with IBS. As a gut health dietitian, I’ve had several patients tell me how difficult it is to find a garlic-free pesto – which is why I decided to make one!

Is basil Low FODMAP?

Yes, although garlic isn’t FODMAP friendly, basil is low FODMAP. There is 3/4 cup of basil in this recipe, but you could easily add extra if you want a more herbaceous flavour.

Can you make pesto without basil?

While pesto is traditionally made from basil, it can be made with other fresh herbs as well. This recipe would also be excellent with parsley, cilantro, tarragon, or even dill. I love dill everything, so that last one sounds amazing!

Is olive oil low FODMAP?

Since cooking oils don’t contain carbohydrates, the won’t contain FODMAPs (specific types of fermentable carbohydrates). This means that olive oil, along with others like canola oil, sunflower oil, and avocado oil are fine to consume on a low FODMAP diet.

Can you make pesto without nuts?

Absolutely! Most pesto recipes utilize either pine nuts or walnuts for pesto’s signature nuttiness. However, you can omit walnuts from this recipe and instead use pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. For a smoother pesto, you could also omit nuts & seeds completely. I would suggest adding a few extra tablespoons of parmesan if you do decide to skip nuts or seeds.

What can you eat garlic free pesto with?

Pesto is such a versatile addition to many different foods! I typically think of pesto as a way to flavour my favourite pasta dishes, but it has so many other uses! Here are some other ways to add garlic free pesto to other easy low FODMAP meal ideas:

• Spread it on top of baked or grilled chicken or fish – it would be great with our low FODMAP lemon herb chicken
• Mix 1-2 tablespoons into sauteed shrimp with a bit of extra oil or butter. It would also be great with these low FODMAP shrimp skewers
• Use it as a base layer on a gluten-free flatbread – add low FODMAP toppings like shredded chicken, zucchini, red peppers, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes and bake it in the oven!
• Turn it into a salad dressing – add some extra oil and a bit of red wine vinegar to thin out the consistency before mixing it with some fresh salad greens. It would make an excellent addition to this salmon salad bowl!

Storing Homemade Pesto: Can you freeze pesto?

If you plan on eating your garlic free pesto right away, it can last in the fridge for up to one week. However, if you don’t plan on eating it ASAP, it is also a great thing to freeze. For convenience, I suggest freezing small portions in ice cube trays or snack-sized freezer bags so you can pull some out whenever you want! If you choose the ice cube tray method, transfer the frozen cubes to an airtight container or freezer bag once they’re frozen.