This delicious and simple pasta dish incorporates a delightful combination of perfectly cooked spaghetti, tender kale, and garlicky olive oil with a touch of lemon zest. Serve it as a comforting weeknight meal that comes together quickly and easily.
Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of kosher salt, and bring to a boil.
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In the meantime, prepare the kale by rinsing, removing stems, and chopping it into bite-sized pieces.
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Cook kale in the boiling water for about 2 minutes until bright green and slightly softened, then transfer to a colander using tongs. Rinse under cold water, tossing, and squeeze out excess liquid from the leaves. Set aside.
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Keep the water at a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the spaghetti.
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In a large skillet or pot over medium heat, add the olive oil and minced garlic. Cook until the garlic is golden and fragrant.
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Add the blanched kale to the skillet with the garlic, season generously with black pepper, and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring often.
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Stir in the lemon zest and season with kosher salt to taste.
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Add the cooked spaghetti to the kale mixture and toss to combine. Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water, as needed, to create a light sauce coating the pasta.
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Top with grated Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, and crumbled kale chips.
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Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful and hearty pasta dish!