Trader Joe’s Vegan Pesto Recipe: Easy Kale Copycat

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Finding a delicious vegan pesto in the grocery aisles can sometimes feel like a challenge, but Trader Joe’s offers a Plant-Based Pesto that caters to those looking for a dairy-free alternative without compromising on flavor.

Preparing a meal with this pesto is effortless and rewarding. Whether tossed with pasta, spread on a sandwich, or used as a base for pizza, the versatility of this vegan pesto makes it an essential ingredient in my kitchen.

The ease with which this pesto elevates a dish is something I always look forward to when meal planning. The convenience of having a go-to vegan option that is as straightforward to use as its traditional counterpart is a game-changer for those of us following a plant-based diet.

Key Takeaways

  • Trader Joe’s Vegan Pesto is a flavorful, plant-based alternative to traditional pesto.
  • This pesto is versatile and simplifies the cooking process for a variety of dishes.

Ingredients Breakdown

When I craft a vegan pesto, my focus is on fresh, vibrant flavors and textures. I select ingredients that are not just nutrient-rich but also ensure that the final product is delightfully tangy and savory, perfect for a variety of dishes.

Base Ingredients

Kale: This leafy green is a nutritious addition to vegan pesto, providing a hearty texture and earthy flavor. Fresh kale blends well, especially when you want a thicker, kale pesto-style base.

Cashews: The use of raw cashews is essential for that creamy consistency without dairy. I soak them in water beforehand to ensure they blend smoothly.

Basil: Fresh basil leaves are the heart of any traditional pesto, offering an aromatic and peppery taste, which is why I always include them in my homemade batches.

Olive Oil: I choose to use extra virgin olive oil. It binds the pesto together and adds a peppery note.

  • Kale: One bunch of washed and stemmed kale.
  • Cashews: 1/2 cup raw cashews, soaked.
  • Basil: 1 cup fresh basil leaves.
  • Olive Oil: 3/4 cup of fresh extra virgin olive oil.

Seasonings And Flavors

Lemon Juice: Adds a necessary zesty kick to brighten up the flavors. Freshly squeezed lemon juice can really make the pesto pop.

Garlic Cloves: For that quintessential piquant taste, a couple of minced garlic cloves are indispensable in my mix.

Salt and Pepper: Just a little of each to enhance all the other flavors within the pesto.

  • Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed.
  • Garlic Cloves: 2, minced.
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste, usually about 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.

This recipe creates the perfect balance between creamy, tangy, and herby that you expect in a great vegan pesto. Using high-quality, fresh ingredients like the ones I’ve listed, I can whisk together a pesto that’s not just good for a vegan diet, but a delightful addition to any home cook’s recipe rotation.

Preparation Guide

Food Processor Steps

  1. Blend Ingredients: Use your food processor to blend together the pesto’s base ingredients.
  2. Add Oil: While blending, slowly pour in olive oil to emulsify the ingredients, creating a rich and creamy texture.
  3. Observe Nutrition: What I love about making my pesto is that I can keep track of the nutrition, especially the protein content by adding ingredients like nuts or tofu.
Trader Joe's Vegan Pesto Copycat
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Trader Joe’s Vegan Pesto Copycat

Recipe by thisrecipelifeCourse: VeganCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

2

hours 
Cooking time

2

minutes

Whether you’re tossing it with pasta, using it as a dip, or enhancing your favorite recipes, this pesto is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and hearty texture.

Ingredients

  • Kale: One bunch, washed and stems removed

  • Cashews: 1/2 cup raw, soaked for at least 2 hours or overnight

  • Basil: 1 cup fresh leaves

  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 3/4 cup

  • Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed

  • Garlic Cloves: 2, minced

  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (adjust to taste)

  • Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (adjust to taste)

Directions

  • Prepare the Kale: After washing and destemming the kale, blanch it in boiling water for about 2 minutes to soften and brighten its color. Drain and squeeze out excess water with a clean towel.
  • Process the Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the blanched kale, soaked cashews, fresh basil leaves, and minced garlic. Pulse a few times to chop and mix the ingredients.
  • Add Liquids: With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil and lemon juice. This will help emulsify the pesto and bring it to your desired consistency.
  • Season: Add salt and black pepper, then pulse the processor a few more times to mix everything thoroughly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  • Final Blend: Process until the mixture reaches a smooth, creamy texture. If the pesto is too thick, you can add a bit more olive oil or a splash of water to thin it out.

Notes

  • Serve or Store: Use your vegan pesto immediately, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it in ice cube trays for longer storage, perfect for adding a burst of flavor to dishes on demand.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, I’ll answer some of the most common questions about working with Trader Joe’s vegan pesto.

What’s the best way to incorporate Trader Joe’s vegan pesto into pasta dishes?

I love tossing a generous spoonful of Trader Joe’s vegan pesto with hot pasta and a bit of the pasta water to create a creamy, flavorful coating. You can top it with roasted veggies for an extra punch.

Can you recommend a recipe that includes Trader Joe’s vegan pesto with chicken?

Sure, although Trader Joe’s vegan pesto is plant-based, you can spread it on chicken before baking for a herbaceous touch. Check out a chicken recipe using Trader Joe’s vegan pesto like this.

What are the main ingredients in Trader Joe’s kale, cashew, and basil pesto?

Trader Joe’s kale, cashew, and basil pesto is made with, as the name suggests, kale, cashews, and basil, along with other flavor enhancers like garlic and lemon juice.

How can I tell the difference between traditional pesto and vegan pesto?

Traditional pesto often contains Parmesan cheese, while vegan versions, like Trader Joe’s vegan pesto, omit dairy and use ingredients like cashews for richness.

Is Trader Joe’s vegan pesto sauce free from gluten?

Yes, Trader Joe’s vegan pesto is indeed gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

For how many days can I keep Trader Joe’s vegan pesto fresh in the refrigerator?

I find that Trader Joe’s vegan pesto stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure to store it tightly sealed. Always check the label for the best-by date as a guide.