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5-Minute Vegan Kale Pesto - Kale pesto: whip up this fresh and flavorful vegan pesto in just 5 minutes. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a healthy dip.

5-Minute Vegan Kale Pesto

Kale pesto: whip up this fresh and flavorful vegan pesto in just 5 minutes. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a healthy dip.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Sauce
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups torn kale (no stems) and parsley, combined
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 clove garlic
  • juice of one lemon
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup raw almonds

Method
 

  1. Combine kale, olive oil, salt, garlic, and lemon juice in a food processor.
  2. Pulse the mixture until it reaches a smooth consistency.
  3. Add the raw almonds to the food processor.
  4. Pulse again until the almonds are finely ground to your desired texture.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Notes

- For a creamier kale pesto, blanch the kale leaves quickly in boiling water for 30 seconds, then immediately plunge into ice water before draining and adding to the food processor. This also mellows the kale's bitterness.
- If you prefer a smoother pesto, process the ingredients for an extra minute after adding the almonds. I found that pulsing in short bursts helps achieve a consistent texture without over-processing.
- To extend shelf life, pour a thin layer of olive oil over the top of the finished kale pesto in its storage container before refrigerating. This creates a seal and prevents oxidation.
Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.