Kale Almond Pesto
Elevate your pesto game with this vibrant Kale Almond Pesto recipe—a nutritious twist on the classic blend! Featuring nutrient-rich kale leaves, earthy raw almonds, and sharp, nutty Parmesan cheese, this pesto is a flavor-packed powerhouse perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip. Blanching almonds ensures a smoother consistency, while fresh lemon juice brightens the bold, garlic-infused flavor. With just 10 minutes of prep and an optional touch of water for your preferred texture, this easy, no-cook recipe is a healthy, versatile condiment you'll want to keep on hand. Perfect for meal prepping or pairing with fresh veggies, this kale pesto is a delicious way to add a wholesome touch to any dish!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 3 cups Kale leaves (stems removed)
- 0.5 cups Raw almonds
- 0.5 cups Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 2 large Garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 cups Extra-virgin olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoons Salt
- 0.25 teaspoons Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Water (optional for consistency)
Instructions
Bring a small pot of water to boil and prepare a bowl of ice water on the side.
Add the raw almonds to the boiling water and blanch them for approximately 60 seconds. Remove and immediately transfer to the ice water to cool.
Once cool, drain the almonds and remove their skins by gently rubbing them between your fingers. Set the peeled almonds aside.
In a food processor, combine the kale leaves, peeled almonds, Parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, and lemon juice.
Pulse the mixture for about 15-20 seconds until it starts to break down into a coarse mixture.
With the food processor running on low, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Season the mixture with salt and black pepper, then pulse again to mix.
If the pesto is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Your Kale Almond Pesto is now ready.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2083 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 189.5 g | 243% | |
| Saturated Fat | 40.9 g | 204% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 8.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 95 mg | 32% | |
| Sodium | 3070 mg | 133% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 44.4 g | 16% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.3 g | 48% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.3 g | ||
| Protein | 69.8 g | 140% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1974 mg | 152% | |
| Iron | 6.3 mg | 35% | |
| Potassium | 1709 mg | 36% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
