Garlic Pasta with Charred Kale and Lemon
Ingredients
- 1 poundpasta
- 1 bunchkale
- 6 clovesgarlic
- 2lemon
- ¼ cupolive oil
- ¼ teaspoonred pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoonkosher salt
- ½ teaspoonblack pepper
- ½ cupparmesan cheese
Prep
- 01
Mince 6 cloves garlic.
- 02
Remove the tough stems from 1 bunch kale and roughly chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- 03
Zest both lemons before cooking.
Method
- 01
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until 1 minute shy of al dente (check package directions). Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
- 02
While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 03
Add kale to the skillet in batches, stirring occasionally, until wilted and the edges begin to char, about 4–5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- 04
Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil. Toss to combine, adding pasta water 1/4 cup at a time until the mixture is glossy and coats the pasta.
- 05
Zest both lemons over the pasta, then squeeze in the juice from one lemon. Taste and add more lemon juice if needed. Toss again.
- 06
Divide among bowls and top with shaved or grated parmesan. Serve immediately.
Spice Tips
For a spicy kick, increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon. A pinch of nutmeg adds warmth without heat. Fresh mint or basil stirred in at the end brings additional brightness if you have it on hand.