Tuesday, August 2, 2011

Kale Pesto-Three Many Cooks

I've been trying to use up the FRESH herbs from our garden and found this recipe from Three Many Cooks for Kale and Almond Pesto. I'm a big fan of both pesto and kale so I decided to give it a try. Chris isn't a fan of pesto (too garlicy for him, no matter how little I put in) so now is the perfect time to whip some up! I made a few adaptations to the recipe but it still turned out great:

Makes about 2 cups.

1 bunch kale (about 12 leaves or 9 ounces), rinsed thoroughly
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (I used 1/2 cup)
1/2 cup whole, raw unsalted almonds (I used pistachios, they were on hand)
1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves
3-4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (I used 1/3 cup)
1/2 cup cold water (I used 1/3 cup)
Salt and pepper to taste


Bring a large pot of water to boil over high heat. (I removed steams before blanching, much easier!)Submerge all the kale in boiling water, stirring occasionally, until bright green but still crisp, 30-60 seconds. Drain the kale and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking. Dry the kale thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel. When dry, tear or cut the kale leaves from the thick, woody stem.



In a food processor fitted with a metal blade, combine the kale leaves, Parmesan, almonds, basil, and garlic; pulse until well combined. With the motor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil first and then the water. Season to taste with salt and pepper. And add more oil or water, if necessary, to reach desired consistency.


Pesto will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks (longer if you float a little oil on the top). And it can be frozen for up to 6 months.


I'm having it this week and freezing 2 jars for later :)

2 comments:

Alicia said...

Wow that looks yummy! I may have to try to make my own pesto soon! I found a fun snack recipe to use it on, take a pita bread and toast it, put on pesto, cottage cheese, and Italian herbs, tastes very yummy. Have a good Wednesday!

Unknown said...

Alica, pesto is sooo easy, all you need is a food processor/blender and you are good to go :) Let me know how it turns out!