I love this simple yet vibrant cherry tomato and kale fusilli pasta. The harmony of sweet tomatoes, hearty kale, and al dente fusilli pasta for a refreshing and easy-to-make meal.

In this delightful dish, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes comes out with the bitterness of kale, creating a very harmonic plate.

I came up with the recipe by looking at what was in my fridge, I love combining ingredients to see what comes out and guess what? Cherry tomatoes and kale combine perfectly!

You can also personalize to your liking, add other ingredients or seasoning if you like as this recipe base works for pretty much any other ingredients.

What is fusilli pasta?

Fusilli pasta is a type of spiral-shaped pasta that features a corkscrew or helical shape. The name “fusilli” comes from the Italian word “fuso,” meaning spindle, reflecting its distinctive spiral design.

This pasta variety is known for its ability to hold sauces well, making it a popular choice for a range of dishes. The twists and turns of fusilli not only add an interesting texture but also create pockets that trap and enhance the flavors of sauces and ingredients.

What is the difference between cherry tomatoes and normal tomatoes?

Cherry tomatoes are small, sweet, and bite-sized, perfect for salads or snacking. Regular tomatoes come in various shapes and sizes, offering versatility in cooking, from sandwiches to sauces. The main differences lie in size, flavor, and usage.

What are the benefits to eating kale?

Kale provides numerous benefits, including high nutritional value with vitamins A, C, and K, antioxidants, and minerals. It supports heart health, aids digestion, and is low in calories, making it an excellent choice for a nutrient-dense and healthful addition to your diet.

Ingredients for 2 servings

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

2 cups fusilli pasta, or any other short pasta type

2 cups kale, sliced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

2 tablespoons olive oil

salt to taste

Parmesan or hard cheese, optional

How to make Cherry Tomato and Kale Fusilli Pasta

Cook the pasta as per package instructions. Once cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of cooking water, wash briefly the pasta with cold water, drain and reserve.
Bring a large frying pan to medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Add the sliced kale, Italian seasoning, salt and saute for 5 minutes until wilted, then add the tomatoes and saute for 1 or 2 minutes.
Add the pasta to the vegetables and some of the reserved water, mix well to form a sauce.
Optionally, grate some Parmesan or hard cheese on top and serve it hot.

What to serve with

There are many delicious Italian dishes to serve along with mushroom and spinach pasta. You can serve this Cherry Tomato and Kale Fusilli Pasta with:

Storage

Refrigeration: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator.

Consume Within 2 Days: For the best taste and texture, consume the stored pasta within 2 days.

Reheating: Gently reheat the pasta in a microwave or on the stovetop. If it becomes dry, add a splash of water or olive oil to restore moisture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes offer sweetness, you can experiment with grape or Roma tomatoes. Adjust the quantity to balance the flavor profile.

Can I use frozen kale?

Fresh kale is preferable for better texture, but if you’re short on fresh produce, frozen kale can be used. Thaw and drain it before adding to the dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the tomato and kale mixture in advance. Reheat it gently, toss with freshly cooked pasta, and you’re ready to enjoy a quick and flavorful meal.

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