Easy Kale and Tomato Pasta is a simple and vibrant dish that combines rich leafy greens, juicy tomatoes, and your favorite pasta into a delicious, one-pan meal. With just a few fresh ingredients and basics, this recipe delivers great flavor without the fuss—perfect for busy weeknights or light, nutritious lunches.
Why You’ll Love This
This pasta is quick, economical, and packed with nutrients. The kale adds a generous amount of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, while the tomatoes add natural sweetness and a hint of tartness. It’s versatile enough to enjoy on its own or paired with your favorite protein. Plus, it can be prepared in under 30 minutes and requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full ingredient list and quantities in the recipe card below.)
- Pasta of your choice (penne, spaghetti, fusilli, etc.)
- Fresh kale (curly or laccinato), stemmed and chopped
- Cherry tomatoes or canned tomatoes, diced
- Olive oil
- Garlic, minced
- Finely chopped onion (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for browning)
- Salt and black pepper
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Cook pasta according to package directions until tender. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.
Related : Easy Date Bark Recipe
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion (if using) and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, and stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the chopped cabbage and cook until wilted, about 4-5 minutes.
Add the cherry tomatoes or canned tomatoes and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Add the cooked pasta to the pan and stir together, adding the remaining pasta water as needed to thin the sauce.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, if desired.
Servings & Time
This recipe serves 4 and takes about 25 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal.
Variations
Vegan version: Skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Add protein: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for a more filling meal.
Excellent addition: Pre-roast tomatoes for a deeper caramelized flavor.
Pasta alternative: Try whole-wheat, gluten-free, or lentil pasta to meet your dietary needs.
Extras: Stir in olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or capers for extra flavor.
Related : Patrick’s Day Rainbow Cupcakes
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil for freshness. Reheating in the microwave is also suitable for short bursts, stirring between each use.
FAQ
What type of cabbage is best for this recipe?
Both curly kale and lacinato (dinosaur) kale work well. Just remove the stems and chop the leaves into small pieces.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?
Yes, diced or crushed canned tomatoes are a great substitute and make the recipe more convenient.
Is this recipe vegan?
It can easily be made vegan by omitting the cheese or using a vegan substitute.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely. Grilled chicken, white beans, chickpeas, or stir-fried tofu pair well with the flavors of the cabbage and tomatoes.
How can I make this pasta gluten-free?
Use your favorite gluten-free pasta—just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Do I need to massage the cabbage?
Not for this recipe. The cabbage wilts and softens during cooking, so there’s no need to massage it.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. It stores well and reheats easily, making it a great option for meal prep.
What’s the best shape for pasta?
Short shapes like penne or fusilli hold the sauce well, but spaghetti and linguine work well too.
Can I add cheese other than Parmesan?
Absolutely. Try crumbled feta, goat cheese, or even mozzarella for a creamier flavor.
How can I thicken the sauce?
Leave the tomato mixture to simmer for a longer time before adding the pasta, or puree some tomatoes for a thicker texture.
Conclusion
This easy-to-make tomato and cabbage pasta is a healthy and delicious dish that’s quick to make with just a handful of ingredients. It’s proof that simple meals can be delicious, nutritious, and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for yourself or serving it to a group, this pasta is sure to please—and become a staple in your weekly routine.
