Kale Pesto
• Blanching the kale reduces bitterness and keeps the pesto vibrant green. • Walnuts give a deeper, earthier flavor, while pine nuts make it more traditional and milder. • Add more lemon for brightness or more oil for a silkier texture. • Works well as pasta sauce, sandwich spread, dip, or drizzle for roasted vegetables. • Stores in the fridge for 3–5 days. You can also freeze in small portions. Health Benefits: Kale provides vitamin K, vitamin C, and antioxidants that support bone health, immune function, and cellular protection. Walnuts contribute omega-3 fatty acids that support heart and brain health. Olive oil adds monounsaturated fats that improve nutrient absorption and cardiovascular health. Garlic and lemon provide additional antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, making this a nutrient-dense, heart-healthy sauce that supports plant-forward eating patterns.
1 steps, about 10 minutes
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01Bring a small pot of water to a boil and quickly blanch the kale for 30–60 seconds. 2. Transfer kale to ice water, then squeeze out excess liquid thoroughly. 3. Add kale, nuts, garlic, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper to a food processor. 4. Pulse until roughly chopped. 5. With the processor running, slowly stream in olive oil until smooth and creamy. 6. Add water a little at a time if needed to reach desired consistency. 7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, lemon, or nutritional yeast. 8. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Blanching the kale reduces bitterness and keeps the pesto vibrant green. • Walnuts give a deeper, earthier flavor, while pine nuts make it more traditional and milder. • Add more lemon for brightness or more oil for a silkier texture. • Works well as pasta sauce, sandwich spread, dip, or drizzle for roasted vegetables. • Stores in the fridge for 3–5 days. You can also freeze in small portions. Health Benefits: Kale provides vitamin K, vitamin C, and antioxidants that support bone health, immune function, and cellular protection. Walnuts contribute omega-3 fatty acids that support heart and brain health. Olive oil adds monounsaturated fats that improve nutrient absorption and cardiovascular health. Garlic and lemon provide additional antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, making this a nutrient-dense, heart-healthy sauce that supports plant-forward eating patterns.
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