Creamy kale pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that combines tender pasta with hearty kale leaves, all coated in a rich and velvety cream sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who love a balance of wholesome greens and indulgent flavors. The kale is sautéed with garlic until it becomes tender, then tossed with al dente pasta and a luscious sauce made from heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of lemon zest for brightness. Finished with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, this creamy kale pasta makes for an easy weeknight dinner that feels both nutritious and luxurious. Serve it as a main course with a side of garlic bread or as a cozy accompaniment to a grilled protein.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Juice of half a lemon (optional, for serving)
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set it aside.
- Sauté the Kale:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped kale to the skillet, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kale is wilted and tender.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the kale and sauce. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly. Season with additional salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired.
- Serve:
- Transfer the creamy kale pasta to serving plates. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over each serving for a bright finish, and top with extra grated Parmesan cheese.
Creamy kale pasta is a satisfying and wholesome dish that blends the earthiness of kale with the rich flavors of a creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy a healthy serving of greens with an indulgent twist.
