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Pesto From the Sea

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This vibrant seaweed-based sauce, known as Pesto from the Sea, offers a unique and savoury twist on the classic Italian condiment. By incorporating fresh kombu or wakame, this vegan recipe delivers a wonderful depth of umami flavour that perfectly complements the peppery bite of fresh rocket and aromatic basil. It is a brilliant way to introduce nutrient-dense sea vegetables into your diet while keeping the familiar, comforting textures of a traditional homemade pesto.

Naturally plant-based and gluten-free, this versatile green sauce is an excellent addition to your weekly meal prep. Serve it stirred through a bowl of hot linguine, drizzled over roasted seasonal vegetables, or spread generously onto toasted sourdough. The addition of roasted pine nuts provides a rich, buttery finish, making it a sophisticated yet healthy alternative to shop-bought varieties.

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Ingredients for Pesto From the Sea

  • 40g (40 g) fresh kombu (or a mix of kombu and wakame)

  • 50g (50 g) roasted pine nuts

  • 1 small garlic clove, minced

  • 1 cup (25 g) fresh basil (including stems)

  • 1 cup (25 g) rocket

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for storing

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice

How to make Pesto From the Sea

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Thoroughly rinse the kombu with water, making sure all pickling salt has been washed off. Dab dry and cut into pieces.

Puree the kombu, nuts, garlic, basil, rocket, olive oil, and lemon juice in a food processor until the mixture forms a smooth paste.

Put the pesto in a glass jar, cover with a layer of olive oil, and store in the fridge for up to two weeks. Always serve with a clean spoon to maintain freshness.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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