11 Best Pine Nut Substitutes for Pesto
11 Best Pine Nut Substitutes for Pesto
Pine nuts are number 2 on the list of the world’s most expensive nuts (topped only by macadamia nuts!), which is why this list of pine nut substitutes will probably come in handy. Pine nuts are beloved for their rich, buttery texture and subtle sweetness, and they're great in desserts as well as savory recipes. Pine nuts are definitely one of a kind—but if you're getting ready to make a big batch of summer pesto and you don't have any pine nuts on hand, don't worry: These swaps will do the trick.
Many nuts and seeds can be used as pine nut substitutes, but some are better than others—and there are little tricks here and there to make a swap more pine nut–like. Pumpkin seeds or peanuts are fine in place of pine nuts as a topping, but they're always not great choices for pesto, so they didn't make our list (pumpkin seeds may result in an oily texture, while the bold flavor of peanuts will completely overwhelm your sauce). So for moments when you find yourself without a stash of pine nuts, never fear—scan the list below, as you’re bound to find an ingredient that’s already sitting in your kitchen. Get ready to make pesto pasta salad, pesto panini and more!
1) Cashews
Cashews resemble pine nuts in color, texture and mild sweetness, and can be used as a substitute in just about any recipe. Stick to unsalted versions (roasted or raw varieties both work), and toast them to provide extra depth of flavor.
2) Pistachios
Stronger in flavor and a touch sweeter, these nuts are also a suitable overall sub. Their naturally green color also enhances the prized hue of a summery pesto.
3) Almonds
These are less flavorful than pine nuts, but they work just fine. You can soak almonds overnight to remove their skins—this will also make them softer in texture, more closely resembling pine nuts. Toasting the nuts will intensify their flavor.
4) Walnuts
The thin brown skin is where the bitterness of this nut comes from. Walnuts can be toasted, then cooled, in order to remove their skins, and soaking them overnight results in a creamier, softer consistency.
5) Hazelnuts
Similar to the walnut, the skins of the hazelnut hold all the bitter notes, making blanched versions the better sub. These nuts have a strong flavor; they're a solid swap in desserts, especially chocolate ones.
6) Pecans
Sweeter than a pine nut, pecans are an ideal substitute in just about any pine nut recipe. They can also be toasted for a more robust flavor.
7) Macadamia Nuts
Though an ideal swap, these nuts are even more pricey than pine nuts. They’re creamy, buttery and slightly stronger in flavor.
8) Sunflower Seeds
These seeds are a great inexpensive swap for pine nuts, but if using them to make pesto, keep in mind that they will dull the overall color. Be sure to get sunflower seeds out of their shells.
9) White Beans
Though white beans will not provide the crunch or texture of pine nuts, they are a decent nut-free substitute in pesto: They’ll add a similar creaminess.
10) Edamame
Whether cooked or roasted for a crispy snack, edamame are a good pine nut substitute. Either version works in a pesto, though the roasted snack version is better for salad toppings or other savory dishes where you want some crunch.
11) Brazil Nuts
These large nuts have a meaty texture that resembles a coconut. They can be used as a pine nut substitute in any recipe, thanks to their rich, buttery flavor.
Find an easy swap hiding in your pantry!