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When preparing your Lively Lemon Kale Pasta, achieving the perfect creaminess is essential. One of the best techniques to adjust the sauce's consistency is using reserved pasta water. As you cook your pasta, make sure to save a cup of the starchy water before draining. This water is a culinary gem; it helps emulsify the sauce, making it creamier and more cohesive.

Creamy Lemon Kale Pasta with Crispy Crumbs

Discover the delightful Lively Lemon Kale Pasta with Crunchy Crumb Delight, a dish that balances the rich comfort of pasta with the nutritious benefits of kale. Bursting with fresh flavors from zesty lemon and topped with a satisfying crunchy crumb, this recipe is both easy to prepare and adaptable to suit your taste. Ideal for busy weeknights or impressing guests, it’s a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients that nourish the body while tantalizing the palate. Enjoy this vibrant meal that invites you to indulge in healthy eating without compromising on flavor.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz. spaghetti or pasta of your choice

2 cups fresh kale, stems removed and chopped into bite-sized pieces

1 cup heavy cream

1 medium lemon, zested and juiced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tbsp olive oil, divided

2 tbsp unsalted butter

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Sauté the Kale: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the chopped kale to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the kale has wilted down. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

      Prepare the Cream Sauce: In the same skillet with the wilted kale, reduce the heat to low. Add the unsalted butter and heavy cream, stirring gently until the butter is fully melted and the cream begins to bubble lightly. Incorporate the lemon zest and lemon juice into the sauce, stirring well to combine all flavors.

        Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy kale and lemon sauce. Toss gently to ensure the pasta is well coated. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creamy consistency. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.

          Make the Crispy Crumbs: In a small pan, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the panko breadcrumbs and toast, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes during the last minute of cooking.

            Plate and Serve: Serve the creamy lemon kale pasta onto individual plates or a large serving bowl. Generously top with the crispy breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs for a pop of color. For those who enjoy extra tang, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top.

              Enjoy: Serve the pasta warm and savor the delightful contrast of creamy, tangy, and crunchy textures in each forkful!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 30 min | 4 servings