Save A festive, wholesome pasta dish featuring creamy white beans, hearty kale, and aromatic herbs—perfect for a nourishing holiday meal.
This dish quickly became a favorite at our holiday table, bringing warmth and comfort to family dinners.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g whole wheat penne or rigatoni
- Beans & Vegetables: 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped, 3 garlic cloves minced, 2 x 400 g cans cannellini beans drained and rinsed, 1 large bunch curly kale stems removed leaves chopped (about 200 g), 10 sun-dried tomatoes (in oil) sliced, 150 g cherry tomatoes halved
- Herbs & Seasoning: 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano thyme rosemary), 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Finish: Zest of 1 lemon, 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice, 30 g grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (1/2 cup) pasta cooking water. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3 4 minutes until translucent.
- Step 3:
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the cannellini beans and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2 3 minutes stirring gently.
- Step 5:
- Add the chopped kale and cherry tomatoes. Season with Italian herbs red pepper flakes salt and pepper. Sauté for 5 6 minutes until kale is wilted and tomatoes soften.
- Step 6:
- Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to combine adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
- Step 7:
- Stir in lemon zest lemon juice and Parmesan. Mix well until everything is coated and heated through.
- Step 8:
- Serve hot garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Save We love sharing this pasta with family during the holidays especially when the whole table is gathered around.
Notes
Pairs well with a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Required Tools
Large pot Large skillet Colander Chef knife Wooden spoon
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (Parmesan cheese) and gluten (whole wheat pasta). Use gluten-free pasta and vegan cheese if needed. Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Save This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a comforting and nutritious meal perfect for any celebration.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What pasta type suits this dish best?
Whole wheat penne or rigatoni work well, providing texture and fiber. Gluten-free alternatives can also be used.
- → Can I substitute kale with another green?
Spinach is a great milder alternative that cooks quickly and blends nicely with the other flavors.
- → How do sun-dried tomatoes affect the flavor?
They add a concentrated sweetness and slight tang, enhancing the depth and balance of the dish.
- → Is it possible to make this without dairy?
Yes, simply omit the Parmesan or replace it with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.
- → What cooking tips ensure creamy pasta texture?
Reserve some pasta cooking water before draining, then toss it with the pasta and sauce to achieve a creamy consistency.
- → Can protein be added to this dish?
Grilled chicken or chickpeas make excellent protein additions without overpowering the original flavors.