Kale & Tomato Pesto Pasta

Fresh kale and tomatoes from the garden means summer is in full swing!

When I tell you there is nothing like a good plate of pasta with a glass of wine on a beautiful summer night, I mean it. It is something of my dreams.

I just recently came back from visiting my family in Indiana and my mom sent me home with a ton of vegetables from our garden. I also had a blast getting it onto the plane but we made it!

I have always loved the flavors of kale, tomato, and garlic with pesto. I think it pairs beautifully! So from my kitchen to yours I hope you give this recipe a try, and take some time to savor the moment- and the pasta! :)

Ingredients:

• 4 oz Pasta of choice

• 4 cloves sliced garlic

• 1/2 small onion diced

• 2-3 cups fresh chopped kale

• 1 cup tomatoes chopped or whole if using cherry tomatoes

• 1/2 cup pesto

• 1/2-3/4 cup pasta water

• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese regular or vegan (optional)

• Fresh basil (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Salt a pot of water and bring to a boil (remember, salty like the sea!). Cook pasta according to package instructions.

While the pasta cooks, in a pan over medium heat add olive oil and cook onions and garlic together for 2-3 minutes.

Add in the tomatoes and cook on medium for another 5 minutes.

Add in chopped kale and pesto here and mix until well combined and kale is cooked down.

Take a 1/2 cup of pasta water and pour it over the vegetable mix. The pasta water will help make a lovely thick sauce! Start with 1/2 cup and add more to your liking.

Once the pasta is cooked, move it from the water into the pan draining off the access water as best you can.

Mix pasta together and add in salt, pepper, and basil.

Plate and enjoy!