Easy Kale Tomato Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Kale Tomato Pasta is a quick, wholesome dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Featuring tender kale, juicy tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a weeknight favorite that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this pasta delivers a delicious, veggie-loaded meal the whole family will enjoy.

ingredients

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

pastafresh kalecherry or grape tomatoesgarlicolive oilsaltblack peppercrushed red 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 before draining.

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices.

Add the chopped kale and a splash of pasta water. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender.

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

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine, adding more pasta water as needed to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly.

Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2-3 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use spinach or Swiss chard instead of kale for a milder green.

Add sautéed onions or mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.

Incorporate a splash of cream or a spoonful of pesto for a creamier sauce.

Mix in white beans or grilled chicken for added protein.

Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.To reheat, warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.Microwave reheating is also fine for quick meals.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, but drain them slightly and use whole or diced canned tomatoes for best results.

What type of pasta works best?

Penne, fusilli, spaghetti, or any short pasta holds the sauce well.

Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! Just skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.

Is this good for meal prep?

Yes, it stores and reheats well for lunches or quick dinners.

Can I add meat?

Yes, cooked sausage, ground turkey, or bacon bits pair well with the flavors.

How do I keep the kale from being too bitter?

Sautéing the kale well and seasoning properly helps reduce bitterness. You can also blanch it briefly before adding.

What if I don’t have red pepper flakes?

Just leave them out or substitute with a pinch of cayenne for mild heat.

Can I freeze this?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Reheat with a splash of water.

How do I make it creamy?

Add a bit of heavy cream, cream cheese, or cashew cream at the end for a creamy twist.

Do I have to use cherry tomatoes?

No, diced Roma or vine tomatoes work great too—just adjust cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

Easy Kale Tomato Pasta is a vibrant, nourishing dish that comes together in minutes with simple, fresh ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch or a comforting dinner, this recipe delivers delicious results with minimal effort. Keep it in your regular rotation for a fuss-free meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

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