Hey there, friends! I’ve got to tell you about my latest obsession: kale avocado pasta! Seriously, this dish is not only healthy but also bursting with flavor. With the rise of plant-based eating, I find myself craving meals that make me feel good inside and out, and this one does just that. It’s creamy, satisfying, and so simple to whip up—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a lazy Sunday lunch. Trust me, when you mix the earthy kale with the buttery avocado and toss it all together with pasta, it’s like a warm hug on a plate! Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, so you can indulge without the guilt. Let’s dive into the deliciousness, shall we?
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious kale avocado pasta. I promise, it’s a simple list that packs a punch!
- 200g pasta (your favorite type, I love using whole grain for a boost!)
- 1 ripe avocado (make sure it’s nice and soft for that creamy goodness)
- 2 cups kale, chopped (stems removed, we want the tender bits)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin if you’ve got it, it makes a difference)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best, trust me on this)
- Salt to taste (I like a good pinch!)
- Pepper to taste (freshly cracked is my favorite)
- Juice of 1 lemon (for that zesty kick!)
Gather these ingredients, and you’re all set to whip up something wonderful! It’s as easy as that!
How to Prepare Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking! Making this kale avocado pasta is a breeze, and I promise you’ll have it ready in no time. Just follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll be enjoying a bowl of deliciousness in about 25 minutes!
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. It should be a rolling boil—this helps the pasta cook evenly. Once it’s bubbling away, add in your 200g of pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes for al dente perfection. Don’t forget to stir it occasionally so it doesn’t stick together! When the pasta is done, reserve a cup of the starchy cooking water—this is liquid gold for later! Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Sautéing the Kale and Garlic
Now, let’s move on to the kale! In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant—oh, the aroma is divine! Next, toss in the chopped kale. Cook it for around 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s wilted but still vibrant green. We want to retain that lovely color and nutrition, so avoid overcooking!
Preparing the Avocado Sauce
While the kale is cooking, let’s make the avocado sauce! Take your ripe avocado and scoop it into a bowl. Mash it up with a fork until it’s nice and creamy—no one wants chunky sauce here! Then, mix in the juice of 1 lemon, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of pepper. Give it a taste—adjust the seasoning to your liking! This is where the magic happens, so feel free to add more lemon juice or salt if you want a little extra zing!
Combining the Ingredients
Alright, it’s time for the grand finale! In that big pan with your sautéed kale (don’t forget the garlic!), add the drained pasta. Now, here’s where that reserved pasta water comes in—start by adding a splash to help everything come together. Then, gently fold in the creamy avocado sauce. Toss everything well to combine, ensuring the pasta is coated evenly with that luscious avocado goodness. If it feels a bit dry, add a bit more of that starchy water until you get your desired consistency. And voilà! Your kale avocado pasta is ready to be served!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare—ready in just 25 minutes!
- Healthy and plant-based ingredients that make you feel great.
- Creamy texture from the avocado that’s absolutely dreamy.
- Versatile with possible add-ins like cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy lunch!
- It’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
Tips for Success
To make your kale avocado pasta even more amazing, here are some pro tips that I swear by!
- Choosing the Right Avocado: Look for avocados that are slightly soft when you gently press them. If they’re too firm, they won’t mash nicely. If they’re overly mushy, they might be spoiled—aim for that sweet spot!
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Give your avocado sauce a taste after mixing in the seasonings. You can always add more if it needs a little extra kick.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers (which is a rarity because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Just know that the avocado may darken slightly, but it’ll still taste fab! If you want to keep it from browning, squeeze a bit more lemon juice on top before sealing.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative! Toss in some cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. The possibilities are endless!
- Reheating: If you need to reheat, do it gently on the stove with a splash of water to help loosen it up. Microwaving can make it a bit rubbery, so I prefer the stovetop method.
With these tips, you’ll be a kale avocado pasta pro in no time! Enjoy every delicious bite!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk nutrition! This kale avocado pasta not only tastes incredible, but it’s also packed with goodness. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving. Keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use.
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
So, you’re not only treating yourself to a delicious meal, but you’re also fueling your body with healthy ingredients. Enjoy the benefits of this vibrant dish while savoring every bite! You’ve earned it!
FAQ Section
Got questions about kale avocado pasta? I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries I’ve come across that might help you out on your cooking journey!
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While I love using whole grain pasta for that extra fiber, you can use any pasta you prefer. Gluten-free pasta works great too, so feel free to switch it up based on your dietary needs!
What if I don’t have kale?
No worries! Spinach or Swiss chard are fantastic substitutes. They’ll add a lovely green color and still keep that nutritious boost. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as they wilt faster than kale!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember, the avocado might brown a little, but it’ll still be delicious! To keep it fresh, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice over the top before sealing the container.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While I recommend enjoying it fresh for the best flavor and texture, you can prepare the components in advance! Cook the pasta and sauté the kale, then mix everything together right before serving. This way, the avocado stays creamy and vibrant!
What can I serve with kale avocado pasta?
This pasta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. You could also toss in some roasted vegetables for a heartier meal. The options are endless!
I hope these answers help you whip up the perfect kale avocado pasta! Enjoy the cooking process and savor every delightful bite!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve made this delicious kale avocado pasta, you might be wondering what to serve alongside it to create the perfect meal. I’ve got some delightful suggestions that will elevate your dining experience!
- Simple Arugula Salad: Toss together some fresh arugula with cherry tomatoes, a squeeze of lemon, and a drizzle of olive oil. This salad adds a peppery bite and lightens up the meal beautifully!
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice! Whip up some garlic butter and spread it on crusty baguette slices. Toast them until golden and crispy—perfect for dipping into your creamy pasta!
- Roasted Veggies: A medley of seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, roasted to perfection, would complement the pasta wonderfully. Just toss them in olive oil and your favorite herbs, then roast until they’re tender and caramelized.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side that pairs well with the richness of the avocado pasta.
- Chickpea Salad: Mix canned chickpeas with diced cucumber, red onion, parsley, and a lemon dressing for a protein-packed side that’s hearty and satisfying!
These sides not only complement the flavors of the kale avocado pasta, but they also help round out the meal with a variety of textures and tastes. Enjoy your feast and share it with loved ones—it’s all about good food and great company!
Print
Kale Avocado Pasta: 5 Reasons You’ll Crave This Comfort Dish
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A healthy and delicious kale avocado pasta dish.
Ingredients
- 200g pasta
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add kale and cook until wilted.
- In a bowl, mash the avocado and mix in lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Combine cooked pasta with kale mixture and avocado sauce.
- Toss well and serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Use whole grain pasta for added fiber.
- Can add cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: kale avocado pasta