Super Green Kale Pesto Pizza Recipe

Introduction

This Super Green Kale Pesto Pizza is a vibrant twist on classic pizza, loaded with fresh greens and rich flavors. It’s easy to make and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, nutritious meal with homemade pesto that takes center stage.

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made pizza crust
• 1 cup kale, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup walnuts
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Step 2: In a food processor, combine kale, basil, walnuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth to create the pesto.
3. Step 3: Spread the kale pesto evenly over the pizza crust.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the pesto.
5. Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Step 6: Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, slice, and serve.

Tips & Variations

• For a nuttier pesto, toast the walnuts lightly before blending.
• Swap walnuts for pine nuts or almonds if preferred.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the pesto for a fresh, tangy kick.
• Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture.
• Add toppings like cherry tomatoes or artichoke hearts for extra flavor.

Storage

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep the crust from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the kale pesto ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the kale pesto a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before spreading it on the crust.

Can I use a homemade pizza crust instead of pre-made?

Absolutely! Homemade pizza crust works great and can add a personal touch. Just follow your favorite dough recipe and bake as directed.

Super Green Kale Pesto Pizza Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 95 reviews

A vibrant and healthy Super Green Kale Pesto Pizza featuring a homemade kale and basil pesto sauce topped with mozzarella cheese, baked to bubbly perfection on a crispy pre-made crust. This pizza offers a fresh twist on the classic pesto pizza that is both delicious and nutritious.

• Author: Sienna
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 1 large pizza (serves 3-4) 1x
• Category: Pizza
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Pizza Base

• 1 pre-made pizza crust

Kale Pesto

• 1 cup kale, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup walnuts
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Topping

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to crisp the pizza crust and melt the cheese thoroughly.
2. Prepare Kale Pesto: In a food processor, combine the chopped kale, fresh basil leaves, walnuts, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Blend everything until smooth to create a vibrant green kale pesto sauce.
3. Spread Pesto on Crust: Evenly spread the prepared kale pesto over the entire surface of the pre-made pizza crust, ensuring full coverage to maximize flavor in each bite.
4. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the kale pesto layer, which will melt and create a deliciously gooey topping during baking.
5. Bake the Pizza: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly, golden, and the crust edges are crisp.
6. Cool and Serve: Carefully remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes to set, then slice and serve warm for the best taste experience.

Notes

• For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the walnuts before blending into the pesto.
• You can substitute walnuts with pine nuts or cashews as per preference.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
• If you prefer a spicier pesto, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture before blending.
• To make it vegan, omit the Parmesan and mozzarella or use plant-based cheese alternatives.

Keywords: Kale pesto pizza, green pizza, healthy pizza, vegetarian pizza, homemade pesto, easy pizza recipe