Collard Greens and Kale Pesto

A vibrant and nutritious twist on traditional pesto using collard greens and kale, combined with Parmesan, peanuts, and bright lemon for a uniquely flavorful sauce.

4 servings
16 min

Ingredients

  • 1 bunch collard greens
  • 1 bunch Tuscan kale
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • ounces Parmesan
  • 1 cup olive oil
  • ½ cup unsalted roasted peanuts
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Cook collard greens and kale in a large pot of boiling salted water until bright green and tender, about 45 seconds. Transfer to a bowl of ice water (this will stop the cooking and help lock in the color). Drain; squeeze out as much liquid as possible (to avoid a watery sauce).

    5 min

  2. 2.

    Coarsely chop greens and place in a food processor. Add garlic, Parmesan, oil, peanuts, lemon zest, and lemon juice; process on low speed until a coarse but well-blended mixture forms (a little texture is part of the selling point). Season with salt and plenty of pepper.

    10 min

  3. 3.

    Pesto can be made 1 day ahead. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing directly against surface, and chill.

    1 min

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