Kale Pesto (Vegan, Nut Free Options Included)
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
5 mins
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Total Time
10 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Calories
119 kcal
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Course
Condiments
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Cuisine
Italian
Kale Pesto (Vegan, Nut Free Options Included)
Description
Kale Pesto (Vegan, Nut Free Options Included) starts with shredded kale roughly chopped and combined with walnuts and ripe avocado, which adds creaminess and richness without dairy. Garlic contributes pungency, while the olive oil smoothly emulsifies the ingredients during blending. Lemon juice brightens the overall flavor, providing a subtle citrus contrast to the earthy kale and walnut base. A bit of water may be added to assist the blending process, especially if using a blender instead of a food processor.
The texture can be varied to suit taste—from slightly coarse with small verdant pieces to a smooth sauce—depending on blending duration and amount of olive oil and water incorporated. The recipe’s flexibility also includes nut-free options by adjusting or omitting walnuts for those with allergies or dietary restrictions. The seasoning with salt and pepper balances the flavors, making the pesto suitable as a pasta sauce, spread, or dip.
This kale pesto provides a plant-based alternative to traditional basil pesto. Its robust green flavor and creamy texture from avocado make it a nutritious addition to various dishes. You can customize the smoothness and consistency to fit your serving use or personal preference.
Ingredients
- 2 cups kale shredded (roughly one bunch, but you don't need to be precise here!)
- ¼ cup walnuts
- 1 avocado
- 1 teaspoon garlic 1 - 2 cloves, minced
- ¼ cup water to help blend (if using blender vs. food processor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- lemon juice one wedge
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Add the kale, nuts and spoon the avocado and garlic into the food processor and start pulsing. If you're using a blender, add all the ingredients and some water to blend.
- Slowly add olive oil through the spout of the food processor. If you don't have a food processor with a spout, just add it in small increments into the bowl and then pulse.
- Squeeze a bit of lemon once it's blended to the right consistency - you can make it as smooth or chunky as you like it
Notes
- Adjust blending time to achieve preferred pesto texture, from chunky to smooth.
- Use water sparingly to help blend kale leaves when using a blender that struggles with tough greens.
- Walnuts can be omitted or replaced to make the recipe nut-free as needed.
- Taste seasoning after blending and adjust salt and lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 119 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 119kcal | 6% |
| Carbohydrates | 6g | 2% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 11g | 17% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 205mg | 9% |
| Potassium | 294mg | 6% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 2280IU | 46% |
| Vitamin C | 30mg | 33% |
| Calcium | 42mg | 4% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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