Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Kale

There’s something truly magical about the simplicity of Spaghetti Aglio e Olio. This classic Italian pasta dish combines the robust flavors of garlic and olive oil with the subtle heat of red pepper flakes to create a tantalizing meal that is both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. In this version, we’ve added kale for an extra boost of nutrition and vibrant color. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish promises to delight your taste buds with every bite.

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Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup pasta cooking water
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: Lemon zest, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water and then drain the spaghetti.

2. Prepare the Aglio e Olio Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until it turns golden brown, being careful not to let it burn. Stir in the red pepper flakes.

3. Add the Kale: Add the kale to the skillet and sauté until it begins to wilt. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with kale. Pour in the reserved pasta cooking water and toss everything together until the spaghetti is well coated with the garlicky oil and the kale is distributed evenly.

5. Finish the Dish: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the pasta is creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Divide the spaghetti among serving bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and lemon zest, if desired. Serve immediately.

Final Tips

• Garlic Care: Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing to prevent it from burning; burnt garlic can give the dish a bitter taste.
• Kale Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of greens like spinach or Swiss chard if kale isn’t available.
• Cheese Options: For a vegan version, substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative.

Enjoy your Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Kale—a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that’s sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation!