This pasta dish is simple, super tasty, zesty and is great in the summertime. The original recipe comes from Rachel Ray, but I made a few adjustments here. 

You will need:

  • 1 package penne pasta (or whatever pasta you like)
  • 1 shallot, minced
  • 8-10 garlic cloves, minced
  • Olive Oil
  • 1/4 crushed red pepper
  • 1 bunch of kale, chopped
  • 1/2 cup dry vermouth or white wine
  • 1/2 cup chopped almonds
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • Zest of one lemon
  • Parmesan, to taste

        

   What you do:

  • Prepare the pasta in the usual boiling water with salt. When it’s done, before straining the pasta,  reserve about a cup of the water.
  • Over medium heat, drizzle olive oil liberally in a large pan, making sure the bottom is well covered. As it heats up, throw in the garlic, shallots and red pepper flakes.
  • After about two minutes, add the kale and vermouth. Stir and let that simmer a little while, wilting the kale. Add salt and pepper to taste. 
  • In a small separate pan, drizzle the bottom with olive oil and over medium heat, throw in the almonds. Stir, and cook them for a couple minutes, then add the oregano and lemon zest. Stir and remove from heat.
  • Add a little pasta water to the kale mixture and simmer a bit more.
  • Add the pasta to the mix and stir, adding in a little Parmesan to taste.
  • Serve with the toasted almonds on top.