A Healthy and Delicious Way to Enjoy Comfort Food
If you love pasta but want to give it a nutritious boost, this Pasta with Creamy Kale Sauce is the perfect solution. This dish combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the health benefits of kale, making it a guilt-free comfort meal. The velvety kale sauce is packed with nutrients and flavor, and the pasta makes it feel indulgent. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe offers a tasty balance of comfort and health.
This creamy kale pasta is ideal for health-conscious dinner parties, family dinners, or even a cozy meal for special occasions like New Year’s resolutions dinners or vegetarian-themed celebrations.
How to Make From Scratch
- Cook your favorite pasta in salted water until al dente.
- Sauté kale with garlic and onions until soft.
- Blend the cooked kale with cream, parmesan, and seasoning to create the sauce.
- Toss the pasta in the kale sauce and serve hot.
When to Flip
There’s no need to flip anything in this recipe, but keep an eye on the kale when sautéing. Flip the sautéed kale once it starts to wilt, ensuring even cooking.
How to Reheat
Reheat the pasta by adding a splash of water or cream and warming it in a pan over medium heat. Alternatively, microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Can You Save the Batter?
Since there’s no batter involved, you can store the kale sauce separately. Keep the sauce in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and combine it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
Can You Freeze?
Yes, you can freeze the kale sauce for up to 3 months. Simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stovetop. It’s best to cook fresh pasta when serving.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
- 4 cups kale, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream or plant-based cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional for garnish)
Directions:
- 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 and set aside.
- Prepare the Kale Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted about 5 minutes.
- Blend the Sauce: Transfer the sautéed kale mixture to a blender or food processor. Add the heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce: In the same pan, toss the cooked pasta with the creamy kale sauce until evenly coated. Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among bowls and garnish with lemon zest or extra parmesan if desired.
Editor’s Note:
For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based milk. You can also swap the parmesan for nutritional yeast to keep it vegan. For an extra boost, add roasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Nutrition Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 3g
