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Pasta Salad with Kale Pesto

A quick and healthy Pasta Salad with vibrant kale pesto, perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Kale Pesto
  • 1 cup kale, stems removed
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup nuts (like pine nuts or walnuts) Toasted for enhanced flavor
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For the Salad
  • 2 cups cooked pasta (like fusilli or penne)
  • Cherry tomatoes (optional)
  • Olives (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a food processor, combine the kale, parmesan cheese, nuts, garlic, and a pinch of salt.
  2. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until smooth.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and kale pesto, tossing to coat.
  4. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Add cherry tomatoes and olives if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. The flavors meld beautifully and get even more vibrant. For freezing, it is best to freeze the pesto before mixing it with pasta; defrost when ready to eat.