Kale and Walnut Pesto

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I love pesto. Pesto is a great way to incorporate healthy fats, greens, and herbs into an every day diet. It is high in protein and pairs well with almost any type of vegetable or meat. I use it as a spread, dip, marinade, or dressing. There are many different recipes and types of pesto. Here is a recipe that I recently came up with and I eat with absolutely everything! 

Ingredients

1/2 cup walnuts, toasted

8 small kale leaves (about 2 cups), stemmed

2 Tablespoons thyme leaves

1 clove garlic

Juice of one lemon

3 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/2 + 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Procedure

  1. Preheat oven to 300 F.
  2. Place walnuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet and toast in oven until fragrant, about 8 minutes. 
  3. Place all ingredients in a food processor and process until smooth. Taste and adjust with sea salt or lemon juice. If pesto is too thick, add more olive oil. 

Notes

 

  • Toasting of nuts is not necessary, but it will enhance their flavor.