Name: Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza for a Flavor-Packed Night In
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 batch Pizza Dough (Store-bought or homemade); 2 cups Kale (Can substitute with spinach or arugula); 3 cloves Garlic (Adjust according to preference); 0.5 cups Pine Nuts/Walnuts (Sunflower seeds are a budget-friendly alternative); 0.25 cups Olive Oil (Use high-quality for best flavor); 1 cups Cheese (optional) (Mozzarella or vegan options); Toppings (optional) (Roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or chili flakes)

The aroma of garlic wafts through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a sun-drenched Italian marketplace filled with vibrant greens and fresh ingredients. Today, I’m excited to share my irresistible Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza—a deliciously wholesome twist on a beloved classic that never fails to impress. This customizable delight not only satisfies your pizza cravings but also brings a nutritious angle with its luscious kale pesto and crispy crust. Whether you’re hosting a lively gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this vegetarian recipe is a perfect choice for those seeking tasty meals without the guilt. And the best part? It’s effortlessly adaptable, allowing you to toss on your favorite toppings or swap in gluten-free ingredients. Are you ready to elevate your pizza game? Let’s dive into this fun and flavorful experience!

Why is Kale Pesto So Popular?

Healthful Twist: This Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza swaps traditional pesto for a nutrient-packed kale version, giving you all the flavor without the guilt.

Customization Galore: The recipe allows for infinite topping possibilities, making it easy to cater to your tastebuds. Add grilled chicken, veggies, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for a kick!

Quick and Easy: With a straightforward baking method requiring minimal prep time, this recipe ensures that you can enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Family-Friendly Delight: Whether you’re feeding kids or adults, this pizza's cheesy goodness and satisfying crust has something for everyone.

For a side that complements this pizza beautifully, try a fresh salad like our Brussels Sprouts Kale or enjoy a slice with one of our flavorful Pesto Chicken Lettuce wraps!

Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza Ingredients

• Let’s gather everything we need to make this delightful pizza!

For the Pizza Dough

Pizza Dough – This acts as the crisp foundation for your delight; feel free to use store-bought or homemade!

For the Kale Pesto

Kale – The star ingredient in the pesto, adding nutrients; it can easily be swapped with spinach or arugula for a different taste.
Garlic – Brings a robust flavor; adjust according to your personal preference for garlic intensity.
Pine Nuts/Walnuts – Adds a lovely nuttiness, but sunflower seeds are a budget-friendly substitute.
Olive Oil – Creates a silky smooth pesto; opt for high-quality oil to enhance the flavor.

For the Pizza Toppings

Cheese (optional) – A creamy touch, with options like mozzarella or vegan cheese for a dairy-free delight; nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan-friendly version.
Toppings (optional) – Customize your pizza with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chili flakes to suit your cravings.

Enjoy crafting your flavorful Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza with the perfect blend of freshness and convenience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Kale Pesto
In a food processor, combine fresh kale, garlic cloves, and your choice of pine nuts or walnuts. Drizzle in high-quality olive oil while blending until the mixture reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper as needed, ensuring this vibrant green pesto bursts with flavor, ready to elevate your Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza!

Step 2: Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 475°F (245°C) and allow it to preheat fully to ensure a crispy crust. If you have a pizza stone, let it heat in the oven for at least 30 minutes to achieve optimal baking results. The high temperature will help achieve that perfect golden-brown finish on your pizza.

Step 3: Shape Dough
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness, about ¼ inch is ideal for a chewy crust. Transfer the rolled dough onto a baking sheet or a pizza peel sprinkled with flour for easy sliding into the oven. This Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza starts with a strong foundation, so ensure it’s well-shaped and ready for toppings!

Step 4: Assemble Pizza
Spread a generous amount of your homemade kale pesto across the dough, making sure to leave a slight border for the crust. Sprinkle your choice of cheese over the pesto, and add any additional toppings like roasted vegetables or grilled chicken. The vibrant colors of the toppings make your Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza truly inviting!

Step 5: Bake
Transfer the assembled pizza to your preheated oven (or onto the hot pizza stone) and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the pizza should be bubbling, and the crust should be golden brown and crispy. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for when the aroma fills your kitchen!

Step 6: Cool & Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove your Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza from the oven and allow it to cool for a couple of minutes. Slice it into wedges and serve while it’s still warm, savoring the delightful blend of flavors. This irresistible pizza is the ultimate treat for any night in!

How to Store and Freeze Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza

Fridge: Wrap leftover slices in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container to keep your Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be stored for up to 1 month.

Reheating: To enjoy the pizza at its best, reheat slices in a toaster oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) for that delightful crispy texture.

Pesto Storage: If you have extra kale pesto, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week; drizzle olive oil on top to prevent browning.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza ahead of time is a game-changer for busy weeknights! You can whip up the kale pesto and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, ensuring its vibrant green color and flavor by drizzling a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing. As for the pizza dough, it can be made and frozen for up to 1 month; just remember to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before shaping. When you're ready to serve, simply roll out the dough, spread the prepared kale pesto, add toppings of your choice, and bake as instructed. This preparation makes it quick and easy to enjoy a homemade pizza whenever the craving hits!

What to Serve with Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza

Nothing pairs better with this vibrant pizza than delightful sides that enhance its fresh, zesty flavors.

Crisp Garden Salad: A light mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed in a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich pesto.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned with olive oil and garlic, these caramelized beauties bring an earthy sweetness that complements the pizza wonderfully.
Garlic Breadsticks: Perfect for those who can never have enough garlic, these buttery treats are an addictive addition to your pizza night.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio matches the savory notes of kale pesto, creating a harmonious dining experience.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Slathered with a little butter and sea salt, this sweet and juicy side echoes the pizza's wholesome essence while adding a touch of summer.
Fruit Salad: Bright and juicy seasonal fruits like berries and melons serve as a sweet, palate-cleansing finish after every delicious slice.

Expert Tips for Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza

Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Think vibrant kale, aromatic garlic, and premium olive oil to enhance your Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza.
Avoid Soggy Crust: Ensure the oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps achieve a crispy crust, preventing any sogginess when loading on toppings.
Pesto Consistency: If your pesto is too thick, add a bit more olive oil for a creamier texture. A smooth pesto spreads easily over your pizza and distributes flavor evenly.
Top with Care: Don’t overload your pizza with toppings. Too many can weigh down the crust and lead to uneven cooking. Less is often more!
Storage Tip: If you have leftover kale pesto, store it in an airtight container topped with a thin layer of olive oil to preserve its freshness throughout the week.

Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza—there's room for creativity and personalization!

Spinach Swap: Substitute kale with fresh spinach for a milder flavor. This creates a lovely green pesto that’s just as nutritious!
Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seeds instead of pine nuts or walnuts in the pesto. They make a delicious alternative that keeps the pesto creamy and rich.
Vegan Delight: Omit cheese and incorporate nutritional yeast into the pesto for that cheesy flavor. It’s a guilt-free way to enjoy this pizza.
Topping Variations: Experiment with toppings like roasted bell peppers, olives, or even artichoke hearts. They add extra layers of texture and flavor!
Additional Heat: If you love spice, sprinkle red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños on top before baking for a fiery kick that elevates your pizza.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or parsley to your pesto for a burst of additional flavor. These herbs compliment the garlic beautifully and brighten the pesto.
Healthy Crust: Try using a cauliflower crust for a lower-carb alternative. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy all the flavors while keeping the meal nutritious.

For additional ideas, consider pairing this pizza with our tasty Purple Basil Pesto or enjoy it alongside our delightful Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza for a comforting meal!

Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right kale for pesto?
Absolutely! Look for vibrant green kale leaves that are fresh and firm, not wilted or yellowing. There should be no dark spots all over the leaves, which can signify decay. If you're unsure, baby kale is a tender option that's great for pesto too.

What’s the best way to store leftover pizza?
Very easy! Wrap leftover slices of your Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. They can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just ensure they’re sealed properly to keep out moisture.

Can I freeze Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza?
Yes, you can! For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze them. Your pizza can be stored this way for up to 1 month. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a toaster oven for that crispy texture—around 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) should do the trick nicely!

What if my pesto is too thick?
No worries! If your kale pesto turns out too thick, simply add more olive oil, one tablespoon at a time, while blending until you reach a smooth, creamy consistency. You can also add a splash of water if you want to lighten it up. Just taste it along the way to ensure the flavors remain balanced!

Are there any dietary considerations for this pizza?
Of course! This Garlicky Kale Pesto Pizza is vegetarian-friendly and can be made vegan by omitting cheese or using a dairy-free alternative. For gluten-free options, simply swap out the traditional pizza dough for a gluten-free variety! Always check your specific ingredient labels for common allergens like nuts in the pesto.

How long does kale pesto last in the fridge?
To maintain its freshness, store any leftover kale pesto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. An excellent trick is to drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top of the pesto before sealing—this helps prevent browning and keeps it vibrant and ready for your next culinary creation!