Macaroni with Kale and White Beans
Elevate weeknight dinners with this wholesome and hearty recipe for Macaroni with Kale and White Beans, a perfect balance of comfort and nutrition. Tender al dente macaroni is tossed with nutrient-packed kale, protein-rich cannellini beans, and a fragrant garlic-infused olive oil base, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. A touch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, while lemon juice and optional Parmesan cheese provide a zesty, creamy finish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pan vegetarian dish is a breeze to prepare and can be easily adapted for vegan diets by skipping the cheese. Perfect as a satisfying main course or a versatile side, this recipe is as vibrant and healthy as it is delicious.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces macaroni pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 units garlic cloves, minced
- 0.5 teaspoons red pepper flakes
- 6 cups kale, stems removed and leaves roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoons salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 15 ounces cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 0.5 cups Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring frequently for 1 minute or until fragrant.
Add the chopped kale to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kale is wilted.
Stir in the cannellini beans and vegetable broth. Simmer for 5 minutes to warm the beans and allow the flavors to meld.
Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet, stirring to combine. If the mixture seems dry, add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the optional Parmesan cheese and lemon juice for a bright finish.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2568 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 71.7 g | 92% | |
| Saturated Fat | 27.7 g | 138% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 95 mg | 32% | |
| Sodium | 4808 mg | 209% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 361.4 g | 131% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 37.5 g | 134% | |
| Total Sugars | 17.0 g | ||
| Protein | 124.5 g | 249% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1867 mg | 144% | |
| Iron | 16.2 mg | 90% | |
| Potassium | 3503 mg | 75% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
