Caprese Sandwiches

Recipe

Rebel Pesto: 100% Dairy-Free Walnut Pesto

Rebel Pesto: 100% Dairy-Free Walnut Pesto

15 min

Fresh, fragrant, and brightly herbaceous. At our Austin bistro, the Caprese sandwich quietly became one of the most beloved things on the menu. Ripe tomatoes, crusty bread, thick slices of creamy Rebel Mozzarella — plus one ingredient that made the whole thing sing: our house pesto. Not too smooth, not too rustic, it's the kind of pesto that clings to bread, pasta, and vegetables alike.This is the exact recipe we made in-house for those sandwiches. Use it for Caprese sandwich with our Mozzarella and eat it cold, or press the whole thing into a panini and let the mozzarella and pesto melt together. Once you make it, you'll taste why it was a hit.

Method

1. Toast the Walnuts

Preheat your oven to 350°F with a low blower setting, if possible.

Spread the walnuts evenly on a baking tray and roast for 7–10 minutes, just until fragrant and lightly toasted. Do not over-roast.

Allow them to cool slightly before blending.

2. Blend the Pesto

Add the basil, toasted walnuts, Rebel Parmesan, finely grated garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to a blender.

Blend until smooth but still slightly textured. You’re looking for a sauce with body — not a completely smooth paste.

The texture should feel vibrant and rustic.

That's it!

How We Love to Use It

Of course, the first answer is Caprese sandwiches, layered with tomatoes and our new Rebel Mozzarella (exclusively available in our Italian Box). 

But this pesto also shines in:

  • Pasta dishes
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Grain bowls
  • Drizzled over summer tomatoes

It’s the kind of sauce that makes simple food feel finished.

It’s simple. Bright. Completely satisfying.

At Rebel Cheese, we believe the best recipes are often the simplest — just a few great ingredients, thoughtfully combined. This pesto is proof that plant-based cooking can be classic, simple, and incredibly satisfying.

If you make it, tag @rebel.cheese on Instagram so we can see how you’re using it!