There’s just something about lemon and greens that screams summer — fresh, zesty, and nourishing without being heavy.

This One-Pot Lemon Kale Pasta is bright and creamy (without cream), tossed with tender kale and a squeeze of lemon that makes everything pop. It’s made in just one pot for easy cleanup and comes together in about 25 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or Meatless Monday with a summer twist.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz whole wheat or gluten-free pasta

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 bunch kale, stems removed and chopped (about 4 packed cups)

• 2½ cups vegetable broth

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast (optional)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, toasted pine nuts for topping

Instructions:

1. Sauté garlic
   In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Add pasta and broth
   Stir in dry pasta and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Add kale
   When pasta is almost tender and liquid is mostly absorbed, stir in chopped kale. Cook 2–3 more minutes until wilted.

4. Finish with lemon and yogurt
   Remove from heat. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, Greek yogurt, and Parmesan (if using). Mix well until creamy and season to taste.

5. Serve warm
   Top with red pepper flakes, fresh herbs, or pine nuts if desired. Serve alone or with grilled chicken or shrimp on the side.

Sarah’s Tips:

• Dairy-free version: Use coconut yogurt and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

• Add protein: Stir in white beans or top with grilled chicken.

• Use what you have: Spinach, chard, or arugula work beautifully in place of kale.

• Chill it: Let it cool and serve as a pasta salad for lunch the next day!

Flavorful Conclusion:

This One-Pot Lemon Kale Pasta is fresh, flavorful, and perfect for summer. It’s a feel-good dinner that comes together fast, uses real ingredients, and delivers all the clean comfort you want — in one easy pot.

Nutrition (per serving, serves 4):

• Calories: 370

• Protein: 17g

• Carbs: 42g

• Fat: 14g

• Fiber: 6g

• Sugar: 3g