Tahini & Kale Pasta with a Spicy Twist

This dish has quickly become a favorite for its blend of bold flavors and creamy texture. The tahini brings a rich, nutty depth that pairs beautifully with the bright, spicy kick of the chili, while the kale adds a satisfying crunch. It’s my go-to recipe for busy nights when I want something both quick and incredibly tasty. Plus, it’s packed with ingredients that nourish both the body and the soul.

Tahini & Kale Pasta with a Spicy Twist Recipe Details:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Number of Servings: 4

• Calories: Approximately 400 calories per serving

Ingredients:

• 225 g gluten-free pasta (any shape you like)

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (about 30 ml, you can substitute with avocado oil, coconut oil, or sesame oil)

• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced (about 12 g)

• 120 g kale, stems removed and leaves roughly chopped

• 80 g tahini paste

• 3 tbsp lemon or lime juice (about 45 ml)

• Zest of 1 lemon or lime (about 5 g)

• 1 tbsp chili flakes (about 2 g) or 1 fresh chili pepper, finely chopped

• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (2.5 g and adjust to taste if using table salt)

• Black pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (about 16 g, optional, for a cheesy flavor)

• 240-300 ml reserved pasta water

Steps to Follow:

Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, ensuring there is enough water to fully submerge the pasta.

• Add the gluten-free pasta to the boiling water and stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking together.

• Cook according to the package instructions until the pasta is al dente, typically about 8–10 minutes.

• Before draining, reserve a cup of the starchy pasta water.

• Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. You can toss it with a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking.

Cook the Sauce:

• While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.

• Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and golden.

• Lower the heat to medium-low and add the chopped kale, chili flakes or finely chopped fresh chili pepper, and kosher salt. Cook for about 2 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender.

• Stir in the tahini paste, lemon or lime juice, zest of 1 lemon or lime, and nutritional yeast (if using).

• Add the reserved pasta water and stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add more pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

• Season with black pepper to taste.

Combine pasta and sauce and serve:

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat each piece thoroughly with the tahini sauce. If needed, add more reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling to the pasta.

• Divide the pasta into serving bowls. Garnish with an extra squeeze of lemon or lime juice, additional chili flakes for extra spice, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

• Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Key Ingredients & Benefits:

• Gluten-Free Pasta: Provides a satisfying base for the dish without the potential for inflammation associated with gluten. Gluten-free pasta varieties like rice or quinoa pasta offer a light yet filling option that accommodates gluten-sensitive diets.

• Olive Oil: Used to add smoothness, olive oil is rich in healthy fats and antioxidants. It complements the cashews' creamy texture and supports overall health by contributing monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, promoting heart health and reducing inflammation.

• Tahini Paste: Made from ground sesame seeds, tahini is rich in healthy fats, calcium, and magnesium. It adds a creamy texture and nutty flavor to the sauce while supporting bone health and metabolic functions.

• Kale: A nutrient-dense leafy green packed with vitamins A, C, and K, kale supports immune function, skin health, and bone strength. Its robust texture and earthy flavor make it a perfect addition to the pasta.

• Garlic: Known for its distinctive aroma and flavor, garlic brings a subtle depth to the spread. It contains allicin, a compound celebrated for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

• Nutritional Yeast: Adds a cheesy flavour without any dairy, thanks to its savory, umami-rich taste. Nutritional yeast is packed with B vitamins, which support energy levels and brain function, making it a nutritious addition to our spread.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of gluten-free garlic bread for a classic Italian pairing.

• Pair with a fresh green salad for added crunch and nutrition.

• Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or cilantro for a burst of freshness and color that complements the dish's rich flavors.

• Top with roasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for a bit of crunch and added flavor.

• Enjoy with a chilled glass of sparkling water or your favorite non-alcoholic beverage for a refreshing accompaniment.

Tips for Tahini & Kale Pasta with a Spicy Twist:

• Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for a gluten-free pasta that holds its shape well, such as quinoa or brown rice pasta. These types maintain a nice texture and pair well with the creamy sauce.

• Reserve Enough Pasta Water: Save more than the recommended 240 ml of pasta water to ensure you have enough to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.

• Massage the Kale: Before cooking, massage the kale leaves with a little olive oil and salt to soften them. This makes the kale more tender and reduces bitterness.

• Balance the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili flakes or fresh chili to suit your spice preference. Start with a small amount and gradually increase until you reach your desired level of heat.

• Enhance the Creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, blend the sauce ingredients together in a blender or food processor before adding them to the skillet.

• Serve Immediately: This dish is best served fresh, so prepare the sauce just before serving to maintain its creamy consistency and vibrant flavor.

These alternatives and suggestions allow you to customize the tahini & kale pasta with a spicy twist to suit your dietary preferences, flavor profiles, and culinary creativity, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen repertoire. Enjoy experimenting!

Alternative Ingredients:

Pasta:

• Zucchini Noodles: Swap out gluten-free pasta for zucchini noodles for a low-carb, veggie-packed option that offers a light and refreshing base for the sauce.

• Lentil or Chickpea Pasta: Substitute gluten-free pasta with lentil or chickpea pasta for added protein and a nutty flavor. These options are great for those seeking a more nutrient-dense alternative.

Kale:

• Spinach: Use fresh spinach for a milder flavor and quicker cooking time.

• Swiss Chard: Substitute with Swiss chard for a slightly earthy taste and vibrant color.

Tahini:

• Almond Butter: Swap tahini with almond butter for a sweeter, nutty flavor.

• Sunflower Seed Butter: Use sunflower seed butter as a nut-free alternative that still offers creaminess.

Lemon or Lime Juice:

• Apple Cider Vinegar: Replace citrus juice with apple cider vinegar for a tangy flavor.

• White Wine Vinegar: Use white wine vinegar as another alternative for acidity and brightness.

Olive Oil:

• Avocado Oil: Substitute with avocado oil for a buttery flavor and high smoke point.

• Coconut Oil: Use coconut oil for a subtle sweetness and unique flavor profile.

Tips for Customization:

• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to modify the amounts of salt, garlic, and herbs to tailor the flavor to your liking. This allows you to create a dish that perfectly suits your taste preferences.

• Explore Different Greens: Swap kale with other greens such as spinach, arugula, or collard greens for varying flavors and textures. Spinach adds a delicate touch, while arugula provides a peppery bite.

• Experiment with Nut Butters: Replace tahini with other nut butters like peanut or cashew butter for a different flavor profile. Each will add its unique taste to the sauce, enhancing the dish in a new way.

• Add More Vegetables: Include additional vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to enhance the dish's nutritional value and color.

• Include Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or cilantro to add freshness and enhance the dish's aroma.