Pasta with Kale Pesto

Pasta with Kale Pesto is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines the wholesome flavors of fresh kale, garlic, and nuts with perfectly cooked pasta. This healthy American twist on a classic pesto is not only easy to prepare but also packed with essential nutrients.

Ingredients

• Pasta (whole wheat or gluten-free) - 200 grams
• Fresh kale - 100 grams, stems removed
• Garlic - 2 cloves
• Pine nuts - 30 grams
• Parmesan cheese - 30 grams, grated
• Olive oil - 60 ml
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Cherry tomatoes - 100 grams, halved (for garnish)

Steps

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the kale pesto. In a food processor, combine the kale, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
3. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.
5. In the same pot, combine the drained pasta with the kale pesto. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired sauce consistency is achieved.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with halved cherry tomatoes and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Cholesterol: 20 mg
• Total Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in vitamins A, C, and K from kale, promoting overall health.
• High in fiber, aiding digestion and helping to maintain a healthy weight.

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