Pasta con Cavolo Nero: A Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Pasta con Cavolo Nero, or Pasta with Black Kale, is a traditional Italian dish that beautifully showcases the robust flavors of kale paired with pasta. This dish is not only nutritious but also simple to prepare, making it perfect for beginners. From my own personal experience, I’ve found that the hearty greens complement the pasta perfectly, creating a satisfying meal. Let me show you how I make this delightful dish.

Notes on What to Expect

You can expect a hearty dish that marries the earthy flavors of the cavolo nero with the comforting texture of pasta. The olive oil and garlic create a rich base, while the optional lemon adds a refreshing zest that elevates the overall flavor. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a comforting meal on cooler days.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Time to Stand: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Easy
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
• Cost of Ingredients: $8–$12 (depending on local prices)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main dish

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet or frying pan
• Colander
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
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Ingredients

• 300g (10.5 oz) pasta (orecchiette, farfalle, or any pasta you prefer)
• 200g (7 oz) cavolo nero (black kale), stems removed and leaves chopped
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust for spice preference)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
• Lemon wedges for garnish (optional)

Variations

• Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the Parmesan cheese for a vegan option, and you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties.
• Add Proteins: You can add cooked chickpeas or cannellini beans for extra protein.
• Add Other Vegetables: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes for a colorful dish.
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Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt to the water.
2. Add Pasta: Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes).
3. Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta using a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cavolo Nero

4. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
5. Add Kale: Add the chopped cavolo nero to the skillet, stirring well to coat in the oil. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the kale is tender and bright green. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

6. Combine Pasta and Kale: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the kale. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired sauce consistency is reached (it should be slightly creamy).
7. Taste and Adjust: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning as needed with more salt and pepper.
8. Serve: Plate the pasta, topping with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Garnish with lemon wedges for a bright finish. > Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory  #Pasta con Cavolo Nero now.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 2g

Conclusion

I hope this guide has made making Pasta con Cavolo Nero seem a little less daunting! Have you tried it before? Please, be honest, and let me know in the comments below. I like to hear feedback from a real person like you, so please, leave your honest comment! Enjoy your cooking adventure!