Kale Pesto

The first time I made Kale Pesto, I was looking for a quick and delicious way to elevate my pasta game. As someone who loves cooking, I often find myself experimenting with different ingredients, and kale was an unexpected star in my kitchen. This vibrant green sauce quickly became a staple in our meals, adding a burst of flavor and nutrition that we all adore. Since then, this Kale Pesto has graced our dinner table countless times, from pasta nights to simple crostini appetizers. It’s amazing how a few fresh ingredients can transform into something so delightful and satisfying.

Ingredients for Kale Pesto

When it comes to the ingredients for Kale Pesto, simplicity is key. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The star, of course, is the fresh kale, which lends its earthy flavor and vibrant color. Fresh herbs and nuts add depth, while lemon juice and olive oil provide the perfect finishing touch. Together, these ingredients create a sauce that’s not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious.

• Kale leaves (3 cups, slightly packed): The main ingredient, kale, is rich in vitamins and adds a unique flavor.
• Parsley leaves (1/2 cup, slightly packed): Adds a fresh and bright note to the pesto.
• Grated parmesan cheese (2/3 cup): Provides a creamy texture and enhances the flavor profile.
• Lemon zest (1 tsp): Brightens the pesto with a citrusy aroma.
• Walnuts (1/3 cup): Contributes nuttiness and healthy fats, making the pesto more filling.
• Garlic clove (1 large, peeled and crushed): Adds a punch of flavor that ties everything together.
• Salt (1/4 tsp, then more to taste): Enhances the overall taste of the pesto.
• Fresh lemon juice (3 tbsp): Balances the flavors with acidity.
• Water (1 to 3 tbsp, to thin as desired): Helps achieve the desired consistency.
• Extra virgin olive oil (2/3 cup): Adds richness and smoothness to the pesto.

How to Prepare Kale Pesto

Preparing your Kale Pesto is a delightful experience that takes just a few simple steps. I love the sound of ingredients blending together, and the aroma that fills the kitchen is simply irresistible. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a fresh, vibrant pesto ready to serve!

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients: kale leaves, parsley, parmesan cheese, lemon zest, walnuts, garlic, salt, lemon juice, water, and olive oil. This organization helps streamline the process and makes everything easier.
2. Next, take your food processor (I recommend using at least a 7-cup size). Add in the kale, parsley, parmesan cheese, lemon zest, walnuts, garlic, and salt. Cover the processor and pulse until everything is finely minced. You want to see a beautiful blend of green herbs and nuts.
3. After that, you’ll add the lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of water. Cover the food processor again and blend until incorporated.
4. Now comes the fun part! With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the feed tube. This technique helps emulsify the oil with the other ingredients, creating a creamy texture. Depending on your desired consistency, you can add more water up to 2 tablespoons.
5. Once it reaches your preferred texture, stop the processor and taste the pesto. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or lemon juice as needed. It should have a balanced flavor that’s bright and savory.
6. Transfer the Kale Pesto to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, but I doubt it will last that long with how delicious it is!

Things Worth Knowing

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are so many ways to adapt your Kale Pesto to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some helpful tips for customizing this versatile recipe.

• Storage: For storing leftovers, place a thin layer of olive oil on top of the pesto in the container to prevent oxidation.
• Freezing: Consider making a larger batch and freezing it in portion-sized containers. This is perfect for quick meals later.
• Pairing: Kale Pesto is fantastic tossed with pasta, spread on toasted bread, or drizzled over grilled fish or chicken.
• Variations: You can add different herbs like basil or mint for a fresh flavor. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick!
• Texture: If you prefer a chunkier pesto, pulse the ingredients just a few times instead of blending until smooth.

How to Enjoy Kale Pesto

Serving your Kale Pesto is where the fun continues. This versatile sauce can enhance a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:

• Pasta: Toss it with your favorite pasta for a quick and delightful meal. It pairs beautifully with both warm and cold pasta dishes.
• Spread: Use it as a spread for sandwiches or wraps. It adds a burst of flavor that elevates even the simplest ingredients.
• Dip: Serve it as a dip for fresh vegetables or crackers at your next gathering. It’s a healthy and flavorful option that everyone will enjoy.
• Grilled Proteins: Drizzle it over grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for added flavor and nutrition.
• Salads: Incorporate it into salads as a dressing. Just thin it out with a bit of water or extra oil for a refreshing salad topping.
• Seasonal Pairings: In summer, serve it with grilled corn or fresh tomatoes. In winter, it complements roasted root vegetables perfectly.
• Brunch: Use it as a topping for avocado toast or mix it into egg dishes for a flavorful twist.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Kale Pesto is truly special for its vibrant flavor and nutritional benefits. You can whip it up in no time and enjoy it in many delicious ways. I encourage you to try this recipe; it just might become your new favorite family staple!

Kale Pesto

The ultimate flavor bomb for your dishes, this Kale Pesto is rich, creamy, and packed with nutritional goodness. Perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or a veggie dip, it's a quick and easy weeknight solution. Make it tonight and enjoy the vibrant flavors!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine Italian

Servings 8 servings

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

• Food Processor
• Peeler
• Grater

Ingredients

  

• 3 cups Kale leaves slightly packed
• 1/2 cup Parsley leaves slightly packed
• 2/3 cup Grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Lemon zest
• 1/3 cup Walnuts
• 1 large Garlic clove peeled and crushed
• 1/4 tsp Salt then more to taste
• 3 Tbsp Fresh lemon juice
• 1 to 3 Tbsp Water to thin as desired
• 2/3 cup Extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

 

• Start by gathering all your ingredients: kale leaves, parsley, parmesan cheese, lemon zest, walnuts, garlic, salt, lemon juice, water, and olive oil. This organization helps streamline the process and makes everything easier.
• Next, take your food processor (I recommend using at least a 7-cup size). Add in the kale, parsley, parmesan cheese, lemon zest, walnuts, garlic, and salt. Cover the processor and pulse until everything is finely minced. You want to see a beautiful blend of green herbs and nuts.
• After that, you’ll add the lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of water. Cover the food processor again and blend until incorporated.
• Now comes the fun part! With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the feed tube. This technique helps emulsify the oil with the other ingredients, creating a creamy texture. Depending on your desired consistency, you can add more water up to 2 tablespoons.
• Once it reaches your preferred texture, stop the processor and taste the pesto. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or lemon juice as needed. It should have a balanced flavor that’s bright and savory.
• Transfer the Kale Pesto to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, but I doubt it will last that long with how delicious it is!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store your Kale Pesto in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to three days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze Kale Pesto in ice cube trays. This way, you can pop out a cube whenever you need a quick flavor boost.
• Tip 3: Always opt for fresh kale and parsley for the best flavor. Wilty greens won’t yield the same vibrant pesto.
• Tip 4: Feel free to experiment with different nuts like pine nuts or hazelnuts for a unique twist on the flavor.
• Tip 5: Try using the Kale Pesto with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or as a spread on sandwiches.

Keyword Easy Kale Pesto, Healthy Pesto Sauce, Kale Pesto Recipe, Vegan Pesto Variation