Healthy Tuscan White Bean Kale

A festive, wholesome pasta dish featuring creamy white beans, hearty kale, and aromatic herbs—perfect for a nourishing holiday meal.

This pasta has become a family favorite during the holiday season thanks to its comforting flavors and nutritious ingredients.

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 3 4 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 2 3 minutes stirring gently

Step 5:

Add the chopped kale and cherry tomatoes Season with Italian herbs red pepper flakes salt and pepper Sauté for 5 6 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

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This dish brings the family together around the table, sharing stories and enjoying a healthy meal during the holidays.

Notes

For vegan Omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative Swap kale for spinach if you prefer a milder green For extra protein add grilled chicken or chickpeas Pairs well with a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc

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

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This healthy Tuscan pasta is both comforting and nourishing making it perfect for festive occasions or any day you crave a wholesome meal.

Recipe Help & Answers

→ Can I substitute the kale with another green?

Yes, spinach can be used for a milder flavor and quicker cooking time, offering a tender texture.

→ How do sun-dried tomatoes affect the dish?

They add a sweet, tangy depth and enhance the savory notes of the beans and kale.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Simply omit the Parmesan or replace it with a dairy-free alternative to maintain richness.

→ What pasta types work best here?

Whole wheat penne or rigatoni hold the sauce well and provide a nutty flavor complementary to the ingredients.

→ Can I add protein to this meal?

Grilled chicken or chickpeas can be incorporated for extra protein without altering the overall balance.