Description

Kale pasta is a deliciously vibrant dish that combines the earthy flavors of fresh kale with the richness of Parmesan cheese and zesty lemon. This quick and easy recipe makes for a perfect weeknight meal or an impressive dinner party dish. With a delightful balance of textures and flavors, you’ll enjoy twirling each forkful of this nourishing, colorful pasta.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz pasta of your choice (whole grain or gluten-free)
2 cups fresh kale, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add chopped kale to the skillet with garlic, cooking until wilted (about 3-5 minutes) while stirring occasionally.
Combine cooked pasta with the sautéed kale mixture in the skillet, adding reserved pasta water and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top, mixing gently while seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Boiling/Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 250g)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 360mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: Feel free to substitute kale with spinach or add sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor. For vegan options, omit cheese or use plant-based alternatives. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.