Cook Tuscan kale pesto pasta recipe for a flavorsome day
Hailing from Italy, Tuscan kale pesto pasta is a vibrant vegetarian dish that blends the earthy tones of kale with the rich flavors of nuts and olive oil. This eggless recipe offers a modern, nutritious twist on traditional pesto. It's a simple yet delightful pasta that invites the essence of Tuscany to your dining table. Now, let's prepare this wholesome, flavorful meal together.
Gather the following ingredients
To make this dish, you'll need two cups of fresh Tuscan kale leaves, one cup of basil leaves, half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and one-third cup of pine nuts or walnuts. Also required are two garlic cloves, three-quarters cup of extra-virgin olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste. Finally, prepare 400 grams of your chosen pasta.
Preparing the kale pesto
Begin by washing the kale and basil leaves thoroughly. In a food processor or blender, combine the kale leaves, basil leaves, pine nuts or walnuts, and peeled garlic cloves. Pulse until coarsely chopped. Gradually pour in the olive oil while continuing to blend until you achieve a smooth consistency. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking your pasta
Boil a pot of salted water. Add your pasta, occasionally stirring to prevent it from sticking, and cook according to the package's instructions until it's al dente, typically eight to 10 minutes. Prior to draining, be sure to reserve one cup of the cooking water. This starchy liquid is essential for adjusting the pesto's consistency when it's time to mix it with the pasta.
Combining pesto with pasta
Transfer the drained pasta to a large bowl or the original pot. Introduce the kale pesto, tossing to coat the pasta uniformly. Should the pesto be overly thick, slowly mix in reserved pasta water, stirring consistently. Continue until achieving a creamy texture that cloaks each pasta strand evenly, ensuring the sauce is neither too thick nor too thin.
Serving your dish
Ladle the warm Tuscan kale pesto pasta into bowls, offering a taste of Italy's simple elegance. For those who relish added indulgence, a garnish of extra Parmesan shavings or a handful of toasted pine nuts can elevate the dish. The combination of textures and flavors makes this vegetarian meal a comforting choice for any occasion, ensuring each bite is as delightful as the last.
