Name: Easy Kale Basil Pesto Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups roughly chopped kale, stems removed; ½ cup roughly chopped basil, stems removed; 3 cloves garlic; 2 tablespoons pine nuts; ½ cup fresh parmesan cheese, grated; ¼ cup olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a fresh and vibrant twist on a classic sauce, this Easy Kale Basil Pesto brings together the freshest kale and basil for a pesto that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy those leafy greens with a rich blend of garlic, parmesan, and pine nuts, all brought together by silky olive oil. Whether you’re a longtime pesto lover or a newcomer craving a delicious, healthy sauce, this Easy Kale Basil Pesto is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

Easy Kale Basil Pesto Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sourcing simple, fresh ingredients is key to making your Easy Kale Basil Pesto truly shine. Each element plays a unique role—from the bright, slightly earthy kale and sweet basil to the nutty pine nuts and sharp parmesan that create a deeply satisfying flavor.

Kale (2 cups, roughly chopped, stems removed): Provides a hearty, nutrient-packed base with a bit of earthiness and color.
Basil (½ cup, roughly chopped, stems removed): Adds a fresh, aromatic brightness that balances the kale perfectly.
Olive oil (¼ cup): Creates that smooth, luscious texture that coats every bite.
Garlic (3 cloves): Brings a pungent kick that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated): Introduces a savory depth and a touch of saltiness.
Pine nuts (2 tablespoons): Offer a toasty crunch and a subtle sweetness.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances all the flavors and enhances the taste.

How to Make Easy Kale Basil Pesto

Step 1: Prep Your Greens and Nuts

Before you start blending, make sure your kale and basil are washed thoroughly and chopped roughly so they process evenly. Toast the pine nuts lightly in a dry pan if you want an extra layer of flavor—it’s a small step that makes a big difference!

Step 2: Combine All Ingredients

Place the kale, basil, olive oil, garlic, parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and salt into a food processor. Pulse the mixture until it transforms into a smooth, vibrant pesto. Scrape down the sides occasionally to make sure everything blends evenly and creates that irresistible creamy texture.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust

This is your moment to make the pesto truly your own. Taste it carefully—consider adding a touch more salt, a drizzle more olive oil for silkiness, or extra garlic if you love that punch. Remember, the goal is a balanced, fresh pesto that sings with every bite.

How to Serve Easy Kale Basil Pesto

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese or a few whole pine nuts on top adds an inviting crunch and a touch of elegance. Fresh basil leaves also make a beautiful, aromatic garnish to brighten your plate.

Side Dishes

Easy Kale Basil Pesto pairs wonderfully with pasta for a quick meal, but don’t stop there! Spread it over grilled chicken, mix into roasted vegetables, or dollop it on crusty bread for a simple appetizer that dazzles.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the usual: swirl this pesto into creamy hummus to spice up your snack platter, or use it as a vibrant sauce for grilled fish or tofu. It’s not just a condiment; it’s a flavor-boosting hero ready to enhance almost any dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Easy Kale Basil Pesto fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay vibrant and tasty for up to one week, giving you plenty of time to enjoy it in multiple dishes.

Freezing

Pesto freezes beautifully! Portion it into ice cube trays or small containers so you can thaw just what you need. This way, you always have your Easy Kale Basil Pesto ready to brighten a meal whenever the mood strikes.

Reheating

Since pesto is delicious served cold or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. If you’re adding it to a warm dish, stir it in at the end of cooking to maintain its fresh flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pine nuts?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or pecans can work well as substitutes. Each will bring a slightly different flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite twist.

Is it okay to use baby kale instead of regular kale?

Yes, baby kale is a fantastic option if you prefer a milder taste and more tender texture. It blends just as well and keeps your pesto a bit lighter.

How long does Easy Kale Basil Pesto last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, your pesto will stay fresh for about one week, though it’s often so tasty it disappears much sooner!

Can I make this pesto without cheese?

You can! For a dairy-free version, simply omit the parmesan or substitute it with nutritional yeast to keep that cheesy umami flavor without the dairy.

What dishes pair best with Easy Kale Basil Pesto?

Pesto is incredibly versatile—try it tossed with pasta, as a spread on sandwiches, drizzled over grilled meats or veggies, or even stirred into soups for a fresh punch of flavor.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Easy Kale Basil Pesto enough—whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or looking to add a nutrient-packed punch to your meals. It’s simple to make, endlessly versatile, and every bite is filled with fresh, vibrant flavor that feels like a little celebration on your plate. Give this recipe a try and watch it become one of your favorite go-to sauces!

Easy Kale Basil Pesto Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 15 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: About 1 cup 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Easy Kale Basil Pesto is a fresh and vibrant twist on the classic pesto recipe. Combining nutrient-rich kale with aromatic basil, garlic, pine nuts, and parmesan cheese, this versatile sauce is perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip. It’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a healthy and delicious addition to your meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Herbs

2 cups roughly chopped kale, stems removed
½ cup roughly chopped basil, stems removed
3 cloves garlic

Nuts and Cheese

2 tablespoons pine nuts
½ cup fresh parmesan cheese, grated

Oils and Seasoning

¼ cup olive oil
1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients: Remove stems from kale and basil, then roughly chop both greens. Peel the garlic cloves and gather the pine nuts and grated parmesan cheese.
Combine Ingredients: Place kale, basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan, olive oil, and salt into a food processor.
Process Pesto: Pulse the mixture in the food processor until all ingredients are finely blended and the pesto reaches your desired consistency—smooth or slightly chunky.
Store: Transfer the pesto to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep fresh for up to one week, perfect for quick meals throughout the week.

Notes

For a nut-free version, substitute pine nuts with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely.
Adjust the amount of olive oil to achieve your preferred pesto consistency.
Use fresh parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
Freeze leftover pesto in ice cube trays for longer storage up to 3 months.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Sauce
Method: No Cook
Cuisine: Italian