Description
This kale pesto is a vibrant, creamy sauce made with fresh kale, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and walnuts. It blends together in minutes and adds bold, fresh flavor to pasta, sandwiches, roasted vegetables, and more.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 packed cups fresh kale leaves, stems removed (about 60 grams)
- 1/2 cup olive oil (about 120 milliliters)
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 35 grams)
- 1/3 cup walnuts (about 35 grams)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Remove the thick stems from the kale leaves and roughly chop them.
- Add the kale, walnuts, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese to a food processor.
- Pulse several times until the mixture is finely chopped.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add the lemon juice, salt, and black pepper, then blend again until fully combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Blend longer for a smoother consistency if desired.
- Serve immediately or transfer to an airtight container for storage.
Notes
- Toast the walnuts lightly before blending for deeper flavor.
- If the pesto is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of water or additional olive oil to thin it.
- Store with a thin layer of olive oil on top to help preserve the bright green color.
- Freeze in small portions using an ice cube tray for convenient use later.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg