A creamy pesto is a cinch to pull together and can be used on pasta, or as a topping for baked potatoes, fish, and even meats like chicken, beef, or pork!
What is Pesto Sauce?
Originating in Italy, pesto is an emulsion made with basil leaves, garlic, oil, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. But the term pesto can refer to any blend of greens, garlic, nuts, and cheese. In this case we’re swapping out the basil found in a traditional pesto sauce for kale. We love this because it takes just minutes to make and kale is available all year long! If you don’t have pine nuts, they can easily be swapped for walnuts, almonds or pecans.
How to Make Kale Pesto
Perfect pesto is always made in a food processor to ensure even and thorough blending. Even a small countertop blender will do, as long as you work in batches.
Storage
The best way to keep kale pesto is in a mason jar or other container with a tight-fitting lid. Kale pesto should keep in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Pesto freezes well. Fill an ice cube tray and freeze. Pop frozen cubes directly into pastas or sauces.
Kale Pesto Uses
Kale pesto can be added to mayonnaise for a sandwich spread, or diluted with balsamic vinegar and tossed with steamed or roasted veggies. Try it with cauliflower, potatoes, or carrots. It’s also a great dip for fresh veggies and a tasty spread over garlic bread! Add to mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, soups, or sauces for additional depth of flavor. Pizza or pasta salad tastes amazing with pesto sauce. Add some white cheddar and serve it with whole wheat pasta and garlic butter shrimp for a super tasty meal! Spoon it over a block of cream cheese and top with some fresh basil, sundried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers.
Delicious Kale Dishes
Sausage & Kale Soup – savory & satisfying Winter Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette – with crumbled goat cheese Garlic Butter Kale Rice – ready in 30 minutes Easy Kale Salad with Fresh Lemon Dressing – so fresh & crunchy! Crispy Kale Chips – nutritious and flavorful
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