Caffeine Free Kale & Herb Pesto

Total time13 min

Prep time10 min

Cook time3 min

4.8

(20)

This vibrant green pesto is packed with earthy kale, fragrant basil, and fresh parsley — a combination that delivers serious depth of flavor without a drop of coffee, tea, or anything caffeinated in sight. A quick blanch keeps the kale bright and tender while toning down any bitterness, so the finished sauce is smooth, lively, and genuinely craveable. Lemon juice lifts the whole thing, and a pinch of turmeric adds a subtle warmth that makes it feel a little more interesting than your standard herb sauce. The optional fresh ginger takes that warmth even further if you're in the mood for a little extra kick. Everything comes together in a food processor in just a few pulses, making this an incredibly low-effort recipe with a high-impact result. Spoon it over pasta, swipe it on toast, toss it with roasted vegetables, or use it as a dip — it's the kind of versatile condiment that earns a permanent spot in your weekly rotation.

About Fig

Fig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.

Learn more →

Ingredients

6 servings

2 cups curly or lacinato kale, stems removed, leaves roughly torn
1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
¼ cup fresh parsley leaves
2 cloves garlic, peeled
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more as needed
2 tbsp lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
¼ tsp fine sea salt, or to taste
¼ tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp fresh ginger, finely grated (optional)

Instructions

1
Bring a small skillet of water to a boil over high heat. Add the kale leaves and blanch for 30 seconds, until bright green and just wilted. Drain immediately and transfer to a bowl of ice water for 1 minute to stop the cooking, then squeeze out as much water as possible with your hands.
2
Combine the blanched kale, basil, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, turmeric, and ginger (if using) in a food processor. Pulse 8–10 times until the mixture is coarsely chopped and the garlic is broken down.

Want the full recipe?

Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!