The aroma of garlic mingled with the fresh scent of basil while the vibrant colors of cherry tomatoes and kale danced in my kitchen. This Easy Kale Tomato Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and share stories, laughter, and maybe even a little food fight (not that I condone such behavior, but hey, it happens).
Close your eyes and picture this: al dente pasta twirling around your fork, bright bursts of tomato flavor making your taste buds sing, and hearty kale adding a satisfying crunch. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend gathering, this dish proves that simplicity can be utterly delicious.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Easy Kale Tomato Pasta comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The combination of fresh vegetables creates a burst of flavor that’s both nutritious and satisfying
- Its stunning visual appeal will impress your guests at any dinner party
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to add your favorite proteins or swap out veggies based on what you have on hand
I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends; their eyes lit up as they took the first bite. It became our go-to recipe for last-minute gatherings.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Pasta: I recommend using spaghetti or penne for a delightful texture that holds onto the sauce beautifully.
-
Cherry Tomatoes: Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for maximum flavor; they add sweetness to balance the dish.
-
Kale: Fresh kale works best; it adds nutrition and a lovely crunch to each bite.
-
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will elevate the flavor; avoid pre-minced options for more robust taste.
-
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the overall richness of the dish.
-
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the top for a creamy finish that ties all the flavors together.
-
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all the other ingredients and bring harmony to your dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—about 8-10 minutes usually works perfectly.
Sauté Garlic and Kale: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—before tossing in chopped kale until wilted.
Add Cherry Tomatoes: Next, toss in halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet with kale. Cook them until they soften and release their juices—approximately 3-4 minutes—creating a delightful sauce.
Combine Everything Together: Drain your pasta once cooked and reserve some pasta water. Add pasta straight into the skillet with kale and tomatoes, mixing thoroughly while adding reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.
Season & Serve**: Finish with salt and pepper to taste along with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve hot while savoring that beautiful aroma wafting through your kitchen!
This Easy Kale Tomato Pasta will undoubtedly impress anyone you serve it to while being quick enough for even those with a busy schedule! Enjoy every twirl of that forkful goodness!
You Must Know
- The Easy Kale Tomato Pasta is not only quick to make, but it’s also packed with nutrients
- Fresh ingredients elevate the dish’s flavor while keeping you healthy
- Plus, it’s a fantastic way to make kale your new best friend in the kitchen
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta in salted boiling water, then sauté garlic and kale while it cooks. Combine everything with tomatoes for a delightful finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out kale for spinach or add crushed red pepper for some heat. You can also sprinkle some cheese on top for extra creaminess.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the pasta.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked pasta, always taste a piece a minute before the package suggests
- Make sure your garlic is fresh; it adds a punch of flavor that dried garlic can’t match
- A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens up all flavors beautifully!
Cooking this Easy Kale Tomato Pasta reminds me of that one time I made it for friends who were skeptical about kale. Their surprised faces when they took their first bites were priceless!
FAQ
Can I use frozen kale instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen kale works well; just thaw and squeeze excess water before using.
What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?
Any type of pasta will work, but penne or spaghetti are great options.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Simply omit any cheese and ensure your pasta is egg-free for a delicious vegan meal.
Easy Kale Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Easy Kale Tomato Pasta, a delightful dish that combines al dente pasta with fresh cherry tomatoes, nutritious kale, and aromatic garlic. This colorful recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings, showcasing how simple ingredients can create an impressive meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that invites laughter and connection around the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or penne
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh kale, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Reserve some pasta water.
- Sauté garlic and kale: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in chopped kale and cook until wilted.
- Add tomatoes: Stir halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet with kale and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Combine: Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet, mixing well with kale and tomatoes. Use reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
- Season and serve: Finish with salt, pepper, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
