Name: Creamy Kale Pasta: Quick Weeknight Meal
Prep time: 25 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup pine nuts; 1/4 cup packed fresh parsley; 1/4 cup packed fresh basil; 2 tablespoons capers or pitted olives; 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Juice and zest of half a lemon; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 8 ounces farfalle pasta; 2 tablespoons salted butter or vegan butter

This creamy kale pasta is the ultimate dish for anyone seeking a flavorful and quick weeknight meal. It masterfully combines fresh greens, zesty lemon, and a surprisingly creamy sauce, all ready in under 30 minutes. The unique preparation method ensures that the kale pasta is not only visually stunning but also packed with vibrant flavors, making it a go-to recipe for busy evenings.

⏱ Time: 25 min

👥 Servings: 3-4

📊 Level: Easy

🥗 10 ingredients

Creamy Kale Pasta: Quick Weeknight Meal

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Prep Time 25

Total Time 25

Servings: 4

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

1/4 cup pine nuts
1/4 cup packed fresh parsley
1/4 cup packed fresh basil
2 tablespoons capers or pitted olives
1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Juice and zest of half a lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
8 ounces farfalle pasta
2 tablespoons salted butter or vegan butter

Method

Make the sauce: Pulse pine nuts, parsley, basil, capers (or olives), kosher salt, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, and olive oil in a food processor until mostly smooth. The sauce will be very salty; this is normal.
Prep the pasta: Cook farfalle pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Cook down the kale: While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add kale and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until bright green and softened. Add white wine (or water/broth) and let it simmer and reduce for about 1 minute.
Finish the dish: Add the drained pasta and the prepared sauce to the skillet with the kale. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and the sauce is creamy. Season to taste with extra Parmesan, lemon, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper if needed. Serve immediately.

Notes

– For an extra creamy texture, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt with the sauce.
– Feel free to substitute spinach or arugula for kale if preferred.
– Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans for a heartier meal.

Pro tips

For an extra creamy texture, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt with the sauce.
Feel free to substitute spinach or arugula for kale if preferred.
Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans for a heartier meal.

Enjoy this delightful kale pasta and explore variations with different herbs or proteins. It’s a versatile dish perfect for any occasion.

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