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.

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

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)

Directions

Step 1

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.

Step 2

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.

Step 3

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.

Step 4

Stir in the cannellini beans and vegetable broth. Simmer for 5 minutes to warm the beans and allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5

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.

Step 6

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the optional Parmesan cheese and lemon juice for a bright finish.

Step 7

Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 8

Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1343.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2568.0

Total Fat 71.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 27.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.4g
Cholesterol 94.8mg	0%
Sodium 4807.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 361.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 37.5g	0%
Total Sugars 17.0g
Protein 124.5g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1866.8mg	0%
Iron 16.2mg	0%
Potassium 3503.0mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 24.9%

Protein: 19.2%

Carbs: 55.8%