Prepare to transform your weeknight dinner into a culinary adventure with this mouthwatering Garlicky Kale Pasta that's about to become your new obsession! Imagine a plate bursting with vibrant green kale, sweet peas, and crunchy toasted almonds, all dancing together in a garlic-infused symphony that will make your taste buds sing. This isn't just another pasta dish—it's a nutritious, flavor-packed meal that proves healthy eating can be incredibly delicious and exciting.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 4 cups kale, chopped
- 1 cup peas
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the kale. Rinse the 4 cups of chopped kale under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Drain well and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the chopped kale to the skillet with the garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender, stirring occasionally.
- Once the kale is cooked down, add the 1 cup of peas to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the peas are heated through.
- When the pasta is done cooking, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the kale and peas.
- Pour in a little of the reserved pasta water (start with 1/4 cup) to help create a sauce. Toss everything together gently to combine, adding more pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Season the pasta mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the 1/4 cup of chopped toasted almonds for added crunch and flavor.
- Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the garlicky kale pasta in bowls, garnishing with additional toasted almonds if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious Garlicky Kale Pasta with Peas and Toasted Almonds!
Tips
- For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and toast your almonds just before adding them to enhance their nutty taste.
- Don't discard the pasta water! It's liquid gold that helps create a silky sauce and helps the ingredients stick together.
- Choose a sturdy pasta shape like penne or fusilli that can hold onto the kale and peas.
- If you want extra protein, consider adding some grilled chicken or chickpeas to the dish.
- For a vegan version, ensure you use a plant-based pasta and skip any dairy.
- Chop the kale into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and a better texture.
- Feel free to adjust the garlic quantity to suit your personal taste preferences.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
