Recipe: Kale pesto

Recipe for kale pesto

Kale or borecole (Brassica oleracea Acephala Group) is a type of cabbage with green or purple leaves, in which the central leaves do not form a head. Kale is very high in beta carotene, vitamin K, vitamin C, is rich in calcium. Its other chemical components cause it to be considered as having potent anti-cancer properties. Try this kale pesto recipe for an alternative way to include kale in your diet.

Makes: 300 ml

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups (268 g) chopped kale
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
  • 1/4 cup (60 g) roasted red pepper
  • 2 garlic cloves, roasted, peeled
  • 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons (14 g) toasted pepitas
  • 1/2 cup (20 g) fresh spinach, loosely packed
  • 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions:

  1. In a large pot of salted, boiling water, blanch kale for 4 minutes. Shock in a bowl filled with ice and water; strain.
  2. Once water has drained away, press out as much water as possible, leaving 1/2 cup of blanched kale.
  3. Place all ingredients into a blender and secure lid. Use the on/off switch to quickly pulse 15-20 times, using the tamper to press the ingredients into the blades.
  4. Serve as you would use pesto.