Kale, Hemp and Flaxseed Oil Pesto

INGREDIENTS

• 2 to 3 cloves garlic
• 3 cups packed kale (about 1 small bunch)
• ¾ cup hemp seeds or toasted walnuts
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• ¾ teaspoon fine-grain sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
• Red pepper flakes, optional (if you want to add some kick)
• ¼ cup flaxseed oil or extra-virgin olive oil (more if desired)
• Entirely optional: â…“ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 pound (16 ounces) whole grain pasta, like linguine
• 1 cup reserved pasta water