If you're searching for a dish that perfectly marries comfort and health, look no further than this Collard Greens Pasta! Bursting with Southern charm and vibrant flavors, this delightful recipe transforms humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. Imagine tender pasta tossed with bright, sautéed collard greens, a hint of garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese—it's a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body. Ready to impress your family and friends with a meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? Dive into our recipe and discover how to elevate your weeknight dinners with this wholesome and mouthwatering delight!
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Prepare a separate bowl with ice water for blanching the collard greens.
- Wash the collard greens thoroughly and remove the tough stems. Chop the leaves into roughly 1-inch pieces.
- Blanch the chopped collard greens in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and become slightly tender. Immediately transfer the greens to the ice water bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color.
- In the same pot of boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Drain the blanched collard greens and add them to the skillet with the garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the collard greens. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If the mixture seems dry, add more reserved pasta water.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Optional: Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top.
Tips
- Blanching for Brightness: To keep your collard greens vibrant and fresh, be sure to blanch them in boiling water for just 2-3 minutes before transferring them to an ice bath. This technique locks in their color and nutrients!
- Pasta Perfection: Always cook your pasta al dente according to package instructions. This ensures it has the perfect bite and holds up well when tossed with the collard greens.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t skimp on the garlic! Sautéing it just until fragrant will infuse your dish with a delicious aroma and depth of flavor.
- Adjust the Sauce: If your pasta seems dry after tossing with the collard greens, gradually add the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach your desired consistency. This starchy water helps create a silky sauce.
- Garnish for Greatness: Finish your dish with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an added layer of richness and flavor.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your dish by adding other ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cooked sausage, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty twist!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 5mg
