This easy 10-minute Low FODMAP Pesto is a delicious, gut-friendly twist on the Italian classic. It uses garlic-infused olive oil for flavor without the FODMAPs, plus chives for an onion-like taste. Pine nuts, lemon juice, and fresh basil blend together for a bright, creamy sauce that’s ideal for low bloat, IBS-safe meals. Use it fresh or freeze for later.
Ingredients Needed:
- 1½ cups fresh basil leaves: packed, washed
- ¼ cup fresh chives: chopped, for onion-like flavor
- ¼ cup pine nuts: soft and nutty base
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: adds brightness
- ¼ cup garlic-infused olive oil: garlic flavor without FODMAPs
- Sea salt or kosher salt: to taste
How To Make Low FODMAP Pesto:
Blend the Base:
Add basil, chives, pine nuts, and lemon juice to a food processor. Pulse until roughly chopped.
Add the Oil:
While processing, slowly pour in the garlic-infused olive oil until smooth and your desired texture is reached.
Season and Serve:
Add salt to taste. Use immediately or store as needed.

Recipe Tips:
- Use garlic-infused oil made with oil only (no garlic pieces).
- Toast pine nuts briefly for deeper flavor.
- Add 1–2 tablespoons water if pesto is too thick.
- Great on gluten-free pasta, chicken, or low FODMAP toast.
- Freeze in ice cube trays for quick single servings.
How to Store & Reheat:
- Room Temperature: Use within 1–2 hours.
- Fridge: Store in airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in cubes, transfer to bag, and use within 3 months.
Nutrition Facts (Approx. per 2 tbsp serving):
- Calories: 100
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Protein: 1 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbs: 2 g
- Fibre: 0 g
- Sugar: 0 g
FAQs:
Is pesto low FODMAP?
Traditional pesto isn’t, but this version uses garlic-infused oil and chives, making it IBS-friendly.
Can I use other nuts?
Yes, walnuts or macadamias are also low FODMAP in small amounts.
How can I store pesto long term?
Freeze in ice cube trays and store in a sealed bag up to 3 months.
What can I serve with this pesto?
Use on gluten-free pasta, grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or as a dip.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! This version is naturally dairy-free—no cheese added.
Try More Recipes:
Low FODMAP Pesto Recipe
Course: SauceCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy8
servings10
minutes100
kcalA garlic-free, gut-friendly pesto packed with basil, chives, and pine nuts—ready in 10 minutes.
Ingredients
1½ cups fresh basil leaves
¼ cup chopped chives
¼ cup pine nuts
2 tbsp lemon juice
¼ cup garlic-infused olive oil
Salt, to taste
Directions
- Add basil, chives, pine nuts, and lemon juice to a food processor. Pulse until chopped.
- Slowly blend in olive oil until smooth.
- Season with salt. Use fresh or freeze for later.
