Trader Joe’s Lemon Pesto Sauce Recipe

Just to inform that, I’m going to share the recipe of Trader Joe’s Lemon Pesto Sauce. I know you were looking for the recipe to make it home. But couldn’t find it anywhere, Just like me!

Last week, I stopped by Trader Joe’s to stock up, and besides my usual finds like the Acai Bowl mix which I used to make this recipe, I grabbed a jar of their famous Lemon Pesto Sauce.

I tried it with my favorite crispy Brussels sprouts and immediately fell in love with its flavor! The tangy lemon, sunflower seed oil, and creamy Grana Padano cheese just blended so perfectly with the veggies, I knew I had to recreate it.

And I did it. I’m writing the Trader Joe’s Lemon Pesto Sauce Recipe so that you can also make the sauce at home or you can buy it from Trader Joe’s as well.

How Does it Taste & How Much I Like It

I have to say, Trader Joe’s Lemon Pesto Sauce is like a little burst of sunshine on the plate! The bright lemon flavor hits first, and it’s so refreshing—it reminds me of summer on the Amalfi coast (even if I’ve never been there!). There’s this perfect balance of tanginess from the lemon and a creamy richness from the Grana Padano cheese, with the sunflower seed oil giving it a light, smooth texture that isn’t too heavy.

The almonds add just a bit of nuttiness, making it both comforting and bold, while the black pepper and salt round it out with a savory kick. I love how versatile it is, too. I’ve tried it on pasta, spread on toast, and even as a dip for veggies. It’s one of those sauces that surprises you with every bite, keeping it interesting without overpowering other flavors.

Recipe Ideas with Trader Joe’s Lemon Pesto Sauce

The ways you can use this lemon pesto sauce are endless, and I’ve found myself adding it to so many dishes! Here are a few of my favorites:

• I love tossing it with pasta for a quick, tasty meal. It makes everything so fresh and flavorful.
• It’s amazing as a topping on grilled chicken or fish—adds that perfect zesty kick.
• I even spread it on sandwiches for an extra burst of flavor—trust me, it’s a game changer!
• It’s also great stirred into roasted vegetables. It takes them to a whole new level.
• And if you’re looking for something different, try adding a spoonful to your soup. The citrusy twist is just perfect.

Honestly, once you have this sauce on hand, you’ll find so many ways to use it.

What Is in Trader Joe’s Lemon Pesto Sauce Recipe

• 1/2 cup sunflower seed oil
• 2 medium lemons (about 3 tablespoons of juice)
• 3 tablespoons water
• 1/2 cup grated Grana Padano cheese
• 1/2 cup whole almonds
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon lactic acid
• 1/4 teaspoon natural flavors (lemon or citrus extract)
• 1/4 teaspoon vegetable and fruit juice (for color—use a tiny bit of turmeric if you want a yellow hue)
• 1/4 teaspoon yeast extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Recipe Substitutions

• Sunflower Seed Oil: Swap for extra virgin olive oil for a richer, classic pesto flavor.
• Grana Padano Cheese: Substitute with Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for a saltier bite.
• Whole Almonds: Use cashews or pine nuts if you want a creamier texture.
• Lactic Acid: Omit or replace with a drop or two of apple cider vinegar for similar tang.
• Yeast Extract: Skip this if you prefer a milder flavor, or add a touch more cheese for depth.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Medium frying pan (for toasting almonds)
• Food processor or high-powered blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Citrus zester (for lemon zest)
• Spatula

How To Make Trader Joe’s Lemon Pesto Sauce

Step 1: Toast the Almonds
Place the almonds in a dry pan over medium heat. Toast for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become fragrant and lightly golden. Let them cool completely before using.

Step 2: Process the Almonds
In a food processor, pulse the cooled almonds until they’re finely chopped. Be careful not to blend too long, or they’ll turn into almond butter!

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Add the grated Grana Padano cheese, lemon zest, sugar, salt, lactic acid, lemon extract, yeast extract, and black pepper to the food processor with the almonds.

Step 4: Combine with Oil
While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the sunflower seed oil. Blend until the mixture is well combined and smooth.

Step 5: Add Liquid Ingredients
Add the lemon juice and water to the food processor. Pulse until the sauce reaches a smooth but slightly textured consistency.

Step 6: Adjust Color and Seasoning
If you’d like a bright yellow color, add a tiny pinch of turmeric or a few drops of vegetable/fruit juice. Pulse briefly to combine. Taste, and if needed, adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice.

Step 7: Finish and Serve
Pour the pesto into a bowl and enjoy it with pasta, grilled veggies, or as a dip!

Recipe Notes

• Avoid Over-Blending: To keep some texture in the sauce, don’t blend the nuts too long.
• Adjust the Flavor Balance: Taste the sauce and adjust the salt, lemon, or cheese to your preference.
• Storage: Keep leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days, or freeze in small portions to enjoy later.

Recipe Variations & Storage Tips

• Herbs: Add fresh basil or parsley for an herbal twist.
• Spices: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
• Extra Citrus: Add lime or orange zest if you want a unique citrus blend.

Storage Tips:

If you have leftovers (or want to make a big batch ahead of time), here’s how I store it:

• Refrigerate: I usually keep it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it stays fresh for about five days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, I freeze the sauce in ice cube trays. Once frozen, I transfer the cubes into a freezer bag, so I can pull out just what I need. It’s super convenient for future meals.

Good Alternatives to Trader Joe’s Lemon Pesto Sauce

• Zaxby’s Tongue Torch Sauce – If you’re craving a bit of spice with a tangy twist, this sauce is a great option.
• Mediterranean Dressing – It’s creamy and full of bold flavors, perfect when you want something a little different.
• Caesar Salad Dressing – Rich and tangy, Caesar dressing adds a savory, creamy touch to many dishes.
• Italian Dressing – A simple, zesty option that pairs well with salads and roasted veggies.
• Citrus Chipotle Dressing – If you like a smoky, citrusy kick, this is a fun alternative to try.

I often switch between these depending on what I’m cooking, and they all offer a unique twist!

Trader Joe’s Lemon Pesto Sauce FAQs

Can I make Trader Joe’s Lemon Pesto Sauce without nuts?

Yes! Swap the almonds for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.

Can I use regular olive oil instead of sunflower oil?

No, because that’s the main ingredient which will increase the taste of this sauce.

Is it okay to use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best, but bottled can be used in a pinch. Adjust the amount if needed.

How do I make the sauce thinner?

Add a little more water or oil to reach your desired consistency.

What dishes go well with lemon pesto sauce?

It pairs wonderfully with pasta, chicken, fish, veggies, and even as a sandwich spread.