Xanthan Gum Free Kale & Herb Pesto
This vibrant green pesto layers the earthy depth of blanched kale with the brightness of fresh basil, parsley, and a generous squeeze of lemon — and a pinch of turmeric gives it a subtle warmth that makes it feel genuinely special. Blanching the kale first is the secret move here: it softens the bitterness, locks in that gorgeous color, and makes the leaves blend into a silky, cohesive paste rather than a chunky, fibrous mess. The whole thing comes together in a food processor in minutes, with olive oil streamed in slowly until you hit that perfect thick-but-spoonable consistency. Because pesto is naturally built on whole, unprocessed ingredients — leafy greens, herbs, garlic, good oil, and citrus — there's nothing here that would introduce any thickening agents or stabilizers, making it a completely clean fit for anyone avoiding additives like xanthan gum. Store-bought pestos and jarred sauces are notorious for sneaking in unexpected binders, so making your own is genuinely the smarter move. Toss it with pasta, spread it on toast, swirl it into soup, or use it as a dipping sauce — this one earns a permanent spot in your weekly rotation.
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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.
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