Monday, September 19, 2011

Spring Returns!

Cool nights and warm days. Kale, cilantro, and lettuce are coming up in the garden. Today it has been raining all day and doesn't show signs of stopping. Okay, I did just rake the yard yesterday, but other than that?

What really brought me back was making a kale and basil pesto today with some Red Russian kale and some basil that has been around all year, but is in a shadier spot so is still green and bushy. I am pretty sure I like it better than basil pesto because it has a bite and it uses kale!

I served it with what I had laying around today: Whole wheat penne, spaghetti squash, prosciutto, sauteed onions, parmesan cheese, and chopped tomatoes (salted and liquid drained for awhile). It would also be good with chicken, mushrooms, and /or broccoli. Don't forget to add pesto to the ricotta when making lasagna or stuffed pasta--you won't regret it! I credit that suggestion to this recipe: Vegetable Lasagna

Kale Basil Pesto
(Adapted from We Like to Cook, and Eat: http://weliketocookandeat.blogspot.com/2010/07/basil-and-kale-pesto-on-pasta-with.html)

Ingredients
  • A handful of kale
  • A handful of basil (I won't pretend to have ever measured either of these, just use what you like)
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan
Directions
  • Saute kale in oil with some salt and pepper. When it starts to wilt add about 2 tbsp of water, cover the pan, and let it cook for about five minutes.
  • Combine basil, drained kale, garlic, and nuts in food processor or blender
  • Add oil as the mixture is grinding
  • Transfer to a bowl and stir in cheese and salt and pepper if needed

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