Easy Kale Tomato Pasta

Easy Kale Tomato Pasta is a simple, vibrant dish that brings together hearty greens, juicy tomatoes, and your favorite pasta in a satisfying, one-pan meal. With just a few fresh ingredients and pantry staples, this recipe delivers big flavor without the fuss—perfect for busy weeknights or light, nourishing lunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta is quick, budget-friendly, and packed with nutrition. Kale adds a boost of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, while tomatoes bring natural sweetness and a touch of acidity. It’s versatile enough to enjoy on its own or pair with your favorite protein. Plus, it all comes together in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta of choice (penne, spaghetti, fusilli, etc.)
• Fresh kale (curly or lacinato), stems removed and chopped
• Cherry tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Onion, finely chopped (optional)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion (if using) and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 4–5 minutes.
5. Add cherry tomatoes or canned tomatoes and simmer for 5–7 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 and takes approximately 25 minutes from start to finish—ideal for a quick and healthy meal any day of the week.

Variations

• Vegan version: Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for a more filling meal.
• Roasted twist: Roast the tomatoes beforehand for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
• Pasta swap: Try whole wheat, gluten-free, or lentil pasta for dietary needs.
• Add-ins: Stir in olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or capers for extra flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to refresh. Microwave reheating also works in short intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

What type of kale is best for this recipe?

Both curly kale and lacinato (dinosaur) kale work well. Just remove the stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned diced or crushed tomatoes are a great substitute and make the recipe even more convenient.

Is this recipe vegan?

It can be easily made vegan by omitting the cheese or using a plant-based alternative.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely. Grilled chicken, white beans, chickpeas, or sautéed tofu pair well with the kale and tomato flavors.

How can I make this pasta gluten-free?

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta—just adjust cooking time according to package directions.

Do I need to massage the kale?

Not for this recipe. The kale wilts and softens during cooking, so massaging isn’t necessary.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. It stores well and reheats easily, making it a great meal prep option.

What’s the best pasta shape to use?

Short shapes like penne or fusilli hold the sauce well, but spaghetti and linguine also work nicely.

Can I add cheese other than Parmesan?

Sure. Try crumbled feta, goat cheese, or even mozzarella for a creamy twist.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let the tomato mixture simmer a bit longer before adding the pasta, or mash some of the tomatoes to create a thicker consistency.

Conclusion

Easy Kale Tomato Pasta is a wholesome, flavorful dish that comes together quickly with just a handful of ingredients. It’s proof that simple meals can be delicious, nourishing, and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this pasta is sure to please—and become a regular in your weekly rotation.

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