Italian Kale Pesto Pasta Recipe
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Looking for a fresh and vibrant dish that embodies the flavors of Italy? This Italian Kale Pesto Pasta is your answer! It’s a perfect blend of nutritious kale and aromatic basil, creating a pesto that’s as delicious as it is healthy. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this pasta dish will impress everyone at the table.
Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta coated in a bright, green pesto, bursting with flavor. This recipe is not only quick to whip up but also offers a delightful mix of earthy and nutty undertones from the kale and nuts, complemented by the freshness of lemon.
This pasta dish is a wonderful way to elevate your weeknight meals with minimal effort. It’s a blend of hearty greens and a hint of garlic, creating a taste sensation that’s both savory and refreshing.
Delicious Italian Kale Pesto Pasta

This Italian Kale Pesto Pasta is a delightful combination of al dente pasta tossed in a creamy, kale-infused pesto. The dish is rich in flavor with a hint of zest from lemon, making every bite satisfying and refreshing.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, penne)
- 2 cups fresh kale, stems removed and chopped
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Extra Parmesan for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
- Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine kale, basil, nuts, Parmesan, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. Add lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine: In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the kale pesto, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and top with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 380kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
Check out more interesting and globally-inspired kale recipes in our blog: 15 Delicious Kale Recipes with Global Flavors.
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