Orzo with Kale, Spinach, Almond Pesto, and Tomatoes
Try this orzo with kale spinach almond pesto and tomatoes recipe.
Try this orzo with kale spinach almond pesto and tomatoes recipe.
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 cups spinach lightly packed
- 1 cup kale rinsed and de-stemed lightly packed - roughly 2 large leaves or 3 small leaves
- 1 cup basil lightly packed - roughly 14-15 basil leaves
- 3 large cloves garlic peeled
- 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
- 3/4 cup unsalted raw whole almonds lightly toasted - i show you how to toast them below. toasted almonds add tons of flavor and a chunky texture to the pesto. you could also try toasted walnuts, but i haven't tried that yet!
- 1 pound (1 box) orzo pasta - you can also use 1 cup dry well-rinsed quinoa
- 1- pint cherry tomatoes halved
- optional - parmesan cheese for topping
- Carbohydrate 0.807287500080832 g
- Cholesterol 1.37500000175201 mg
- Fat 7.2082812591704 g
- Fiber 0.0472499978542328 g
- Protein 0.74403750076571 g
- Saturated Fat 1.20437062653205 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -6 (125g)
- Sodium 315.093125030613 mg
- Sugar 0.760037502226599 g
- Trans Fat 0.213703125267969 g
- Calories 70 calories
Step-by-step
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the orzo.
- Make the kale, spinach, and basil pesto (can be made ahead).
- Toast the almonds for the pesto (can be done ahead and cooled).
- Set a dry skillet over medium heat. Add almonds and stir until browned and toasted. Cool.
- Place pesto ingredients in a food processor and process until smooth but slightly chunky.
- When the water boils, add orzo and cook according to package directions (about 10 minutes).
- Drain orzo, return to pot, add pesto and sliced tomatoes. Toss to combine.
- Serve in bowls, topped with parmesan or feta cheese. Add olives, pine nuts, or garbanzo beans as desired.
Orzo with Kale, Spinach, Almond Pesto, and Tomatoes: A Simple Weeknight Delight
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can be a real challenge. That’s why I love recipes that are quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. This orzo pasta dish fits the bill perfectly. It's a vibrant, satisfying meal that's ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for those weeknights when you need a dinner solution fast.
The star of this show is undoubtedly the homemade almond pesto. The nutty flavor of the toasted almonds pairs beautifully with the earthy kale and spinach, creating a pesto that’s both rich and herbaceous. Forget those jarred pestos – making your own is surprisingly simple and allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and avoiding unnecessary additives. The bright lemon juice cuts through the richness, adding a lovely zing that balances the entire dish.
The orzo, a small, rice-shaped pasta, cooks quickly and absorbs the pesto beautifully. It provides a satisfying base for the vibrant pesto and the juicy sweetness of the halved cherry tomatoes. I often add a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra tangy bite, but a good quality parmesan works just as well. The beauty of this dish is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with other ingredients to create your own unique twist. A handful of Kalamata olives adds a briny depth, while toasted pine nuts offer a different nutty dimension. Even adding some chickpeas would boost the protein content and add a lovely texture.
This recipe is not just about the taste; it’s about the efficiency and ease of preparation. The pesto can be made ahead of time, allowing you to grab it from the fridge when you’re ready to cook. Similarly, toasting the almonds can also be done in advance, saving you precious time on busy weeknights. I often double the pesto recipe, storing half in the freezer for later use. This ensures I always have a quick and flavorful sauce on hand for pasta, chicken, or even as a vibrant spread for sandwiches.
Beyond the simple preparation, this dish is incredibly healthy. The abundance of leafy greens provides essential vitamins and minerals, while the almonds offer healthy fats and protein. The orzo contributes carbohydrates for sustained energy, making it a well-rounded and nutritious meal. It's a great way to sneak in your greens, especially if you have picky eaters who might not otherwise embrace a big bowl of kale and spinach.
So, the next time you’re short on time but craving a healthy and delicious dinner, try this orzo pasta recipe. It’s a surefire way to impress your family and friends with minimal effort. The bright flavors and satisfying texture will quickly become a family favorite. It's a perfect example of how simple ingredients, combined with a little creativity, can result in an extraordinary meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Make it vegetarian/vegan: Ensure your parmesan cheese is vegetarian or omit it altogether for a vegan version.
- Add some heat: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for a spicy kick.
- Boost the protein: Add cooked chickpeas or white beans for extra protein.
- Use different nuts: Experiment with walnuts or pecans instead of almonds.
- Customize the greens: Try other leafy greens like arugula or chard.
This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the power of simple, fresh ingredients and a little bit of culinary creativity. It’s the kind of dish that nourishes both body and soul, a reminder that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.
