Save A vibrant, budget-friendly one-pot pasta dish featuring tender spaghetti, hearty kale, and juicy tomatoes. Minimal prep and easy cleanup make it perfect for busy weeknights.
I first made this recipe when I was craving something simple and healthy but didn&t want to spend too long in the kitchen. The combination of fresh tomatoes and kale creates a deliciously vibrant dish that even my pickiest eaters love.
Ingredients
- Dried Spaghetti: 350 g (12 oz)
- Curly Kale: 200 g (7 oz), stems removed, leaves roughly chopped
- Cherry Tomatoes: 400 g (14 oz), halved
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Vegetable Broth: 900 ml (4 cups)
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
- Dried Oregano: 1 tsp
- Dried Basil: 1 tsp
- Chili Flakes (optional): ½ tsp
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: to taste
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (or vegetarian hard cheese): 50 g (½ cup)
- Fresh Basil Leaves: to serve
- Extra Olive Oil: for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Saute Aromatics:
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add Main Ingredients:
- Add cherry tomatoes, kale, dried spaghetti, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Simmer and Cook:
- Bring to a simmer. Use tongs to gently stir and ensure the spaghetti is submerged. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until spaghetti is al dente and kale is tender. Add a splash more broth or water if needed to prevent sticking.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove from heat. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and toss to combine. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and an extra drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Save This dish has become a regular at family dinners, especially when we want something both hearty and wholesome. Everyone loves customizing their bowl with extra cheese or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet or Dutch oven, chefs knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, tongs
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 380, Total Fat: 10 g, Carbohydrates: 60 g, Protein: 13 g
Tips & Variations
Make it vegan by using a plant-based cheese, add chickpeas or white beans for extra protein, or swap kale for spinach to suit your taste.
Save Enjoy this colorful pasta for a comforting meal that&sure to please vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I prevent the spaghetti from sticking?
Make sure the spaghetti is fully submerged in the broth and stir occasionally. Adding a bit more liquid during cooking can also help.
- → Can I substitute kale with another leafy green?
Yes, spinach works well as a milder alternative and cooks quickly with similar nutrient benefits.
- → What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese for a vegan version?
Try a plant-based hard cheese or simply omit the cheese and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- → Is it possible to add more protein to this dish?
Yes, draining and stirring in canned chickpeas or white beans boosts protein without altering flavors much.
- → What herbs best complement the flavors here?
Dried oregano and basil infuse the broth with warmth, while fresh basil added at the end brightens the dish.
- → How long does the cooking process take overall?
Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and cooking the combined ingredients takes around 20 minutes, making it a quick meal.