Easy Kale Tomato Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Kale Tomato Pasta is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. It combines hearty kale with juicy tomatoes in a light, savory sauce that clings to your favorite pasta. Packed with vitamins and rich in taste, it’s a satisfying vegetarian option that’s both comforting and wholesome.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pastafresh kalecherry tomatoesgarlicolive oilsaltblack pepperred pepper flakes (optional)grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add sliced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften and release juices, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to help wilt the kale.

Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Toss in the cooked pasta and mix until everything is evenly combined and heated through. Add more pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.

Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add cannellini beans or chickpeas for extra protein.

Use spinach or arugula instead of kale for a different green.

Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper, tangy flavor.

Top with toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs for texture.

Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.Microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen kale?

Yes, just thaw and drain it well before adding to the skillet.

What type of pasta works best?

Short shapes like penne or fusilli work well, but spaghetti or linguine also pair nicely.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely, just omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.

Is it spicy with red pepper flakes?

Only mildly, and you can skip them if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I add meat?

Yes, cooked chicken or sausage makes a great addition.

What’s the best way to make it creamy?

Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta at the end.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

You can cook the sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve with fresh pasta.

Conclusion

Easy Kale Tomato Pasta is the perfect blend of simplicity and nutrition, making it a go-to for a quick, hearty meal. With minimal ingredients and plenty of room for customization, it’s a reliable recipe to keep in your weeknight dinner rotation.

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