Save A festive, wholesome pasta dish featuring creamy white beans, hearty kale, and aromatic herbs—perfect for a nourishing holiday meal.
This recipe has been a staple in our family Christmas dinners, bringing warmth and comfort year after year.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g whole wheat penne or rigatoni
- Beans & Vegetables: 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped, 3 garlic cloves minced, 2 x 400 g cans cannellini beans drained and rinsed, 1 large bunch curly kale stems removed leaves chopped (about 200 g), 10 sun-dried tomatoes (in oil) sliced, 150 g cherry tomatoes halved
- Herbs & Seasoning: 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano thyme rosemary), 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Finish: Zest of 1 lemon, 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice, 30 g grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (1/2 cup) pasta cooking water. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 34 minutes until translucent.
- Step 3:
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the cannellini beans and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 23 minutes stirring gently.
- Step 5:
- Add the chopped kale and cherry tomatoes. Season with Italian herbs red pepper flakes salt and pepper. Sauté for 56 minutes until kale is wilted and tomatoes soften.
- Step 6:
- Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to combine adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
- Step 7:
- Stir in lemon zest lemon juice and Parmesan. Mix well until everything is coated and heated through.
- Step 8:
- Serve hot garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Save This dish creates memorable family moments around the dinner table every holiday season.
Notes
Pairs well with a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc and can be boosted with extra protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas.
Required Tools
Large pot Large skillet Colander Chefs knife Wooden spoon
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (Parmesan cheese) and gluten (whole wheat pasta). Use gluten-free pasta and vegan cheese if needed. Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Save This festive pasta dish is quick to prepare and guaranteed to delight your guests.
Cooking Questions
- → Which beans work best in this dish?
Cannellini beans are ideal for their creamy texture, but other white beans like Great Northern can also be used.
- → Can I substitute kale with another green?
Yes, spinach or Swiss chard make excellent alternatives for a milder flavor and similar nutritional benefits.
- → How can I enhance the creaminess without cream?
Reserved pasta water added during tossing helps create a silky, cohesive sauce without dairy.
- → What herbs best complement the flavors?
A blend of oregano, thyme, and rosemary accentuates the Tuscan style, balancing the beans and greens perfectly.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, by omitting Parmesan or using a plant-based alternative, the dish can easily become vegan-friendly.