Miso Pesto

This Miso Pesto is a fresh, vibrant twist on traditional pesto, combining basil, parsley, and kale with the savory, umami-rich flavor of white miso. Toasted nuts or seeds add richness and texture, while garlic and lemon provide brightness. This versatile sauce can be used in a variety of ways, from pasta to roasted veggies, and is a perfect addition to your meal prep routine.

How to Prepare Your Miso Pesto

Total time 10 min

Servings 2 cups

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1 cup fresh parsley, leaves and stems
• 1 cup raw kale, chopped
• 2-3 tbsp white miso paste
• 1/4 cup toasted nuts or seeds (such as almonds, pine nuts, walnuts, or sunflower seeds)
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1/4 cup avocado oil or olive oil
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1-2 tbsp lemon juice + 1 tsp zest
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional for cheesy flavor)

Preparation

Step 1: Blend Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the basil, parsley, kale, white miso paste, toasted nuts, garlic, and nutritional yeast (if using). Pulse until coarsely chopped. While blending, slowly drizzle in the olive oil and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth. Add more oil as needed for the desired consistency.

Step 2: Adjust Consistency and Enjoy

If the pesto is too thick, add more oil or a splash of water to thin it out. Store the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze small portions for longer storage.

Ways to Enjoy

• Pasta: Toss with your favorite pasta for a fresh, flavorful dish. For a heartier meal, add roasted vegetables or grilled chicken.
• Spread for Sandwiches or Wraps: Use as a spread on sandwiches, wraps, or veggie burgers for an extra burst of flavor.
• Drizzle Over Roasted Veggies: Add a dollop of Miso Pesto over roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower.
• Dip for Snacks: Serve it as a dip with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
• Salad Dressing Base: Thin with olive oil or lemon juice and use as a unique salad dressing for greens or grain bowls.
• Protein Topper: Spoon over grilled or roasted proteins like chicken, tofu, or fish for a fresh, tangy finish.

Chef’s Tips

• Consistency Control: If you prefer a thinner pesto, gradually add more oil or water until you achieve your desired texture.
• Nutritional Boost: Adding kale and miso to this pesto increases its nutritional content, offering fiber, vitamins, and minerals making it a great alternative to traditional pesto.
• Storing Pesto: For longer storage, freeze the pesto in small portions (ice cube trays work great) so you can easily thaw and use it in future meals.

Miso Pesto

Total Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 2 cups

Whether you're tossing it with pasta, spreading it on sandwiches, or drizzling it over vegetables, this miso pesto is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

1 cup fresh basil leaves

1 cup fresh parsley, leaves and stems

1 cup raw kale, chopped

2-3 tbsp white miso paste

1/4 cup toasted nuts or seeds (such as almonds, pine nuts, walnuts, or sunflower seeds)

2 cloves garlic, peeled

1/4 cup avocado oil or olive oil

2 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)

1-2 tbsp lemon juice + 1 tsp zest

2 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional for cheesy flavor)

Instructions

1. Blend Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the basil, parsley, kale, white miso paste, toasted nuts, garlic, and nutritional yeast (if using). Pulse until coarsely chopped. While blending, slowly drizzle in the olive oil and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth. Add more oil as needed for the desired consistency.

2. Adjust Consitency and Enjoy

If the pesto is too thick, add more oil or a splash of water to thin it out. Store the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze small portions for longer storage.

Nutritional Facts

Serving Size: 1 ounce (2-3 tbsp)

Calories Per Serving: 72 kcal

Total Fat	6.5 g
Saturated Fat	0.7 g
Trans Fat	0 g
Cholesterol	2.3 g
Sodium	104 mg
Total Carbohydrate	2.3 g
Dietary Fiber	1 g
Sugars	0.7 g
Protein	2 g

Vitamin A	2 %
Vitamin C	19 %
Calcium	2 %
Iron	4 %
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.