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Fresh Kale Cacio e Pepe. picture

Kale Cacio e Pepe.

This Kale Cacio e Pepe is a creamy, comforting twist on a classic Italian dish, packed with nutrients and flavor!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Colander
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or tongs

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz Whole Wheat Spaghetti
  • 3 tbsp Unsalted Butter melted
  • 1 cup Kale chopped, stems removed
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese finely grated
  • 1/2 cup Pecorino Cheese finely grated
  • 1 tbsp Freshly Cracked Black Pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Shavings for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of the pasta cooking water, and then drain the spaghetti in a colander.
  • In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped kale to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it’s wilted and tender. Season with half of the freshly cracked black pepper.
  • Once the kale is sautéed, add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss well to combine with the kale, ensuring the pasta absorbs some of the buttery goodness.
  • Sprinkle the finely grated Parmesan and Pecorino cheeses over the pasta. Stir continuously while adding reserved pasta cooking water, a little at a time, until the cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce that coats the pasta.
  • Taste and adjust the flavor by adding more black pepper or cheese if desired. Toss until everything is well combined.
  • Plate the Kale Cacio e Pepe and finish with generous shavings of Parmesan on top. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious dish!

Notes

  • Don’t skimp on the cheese; it’s what makes this dish so decadent!
  • Feel free to substitute other greens like spinach or Swiss chard if kale isn’t your preference.
  • For a vegan option, try nutritional yeast instead of cheese and a plant-based butter alternative.
Keyword Easy, Healthy, Pasta