Eat the same spaghetti dish every week? Are you sick of it? Do you want to spice up pasta night with a healthy twist? Look nowhere else! This post will introduce you to a nutritious spaghetti meal that includes kale and walnuts and will up your noodle game. This meal is not only tasty, but it's also quick, simple, and nutrient-rich.
Benefits of Eating Walnuts and Kale
Let's discuss the advantages of the two primary ingredients, walnuts and kale, before getting into the dish.
Walnuts
Omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart health, are abundant in walnuts. They also have anti-inflammatory benefits and antioxidant content. According to studies, including walnuts in your diet may lower your risk of developing some malignancies and enhance your cognitive function.
Kale
Kale is a lush green vegetable that is incredibly nutritious. It is an excellent source of calcium, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K. Additionally, kale has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that may help reduce the risk of chronic illnesses like cancer and heart disease.
Healthy Spaghetti Recipe with Walnuts & Kale
Now, let's get into the recipe. Here's what you'll need:
Ingredients:
8 ounces of whole-grain spaghetti
2 cups of chopped kale
1/2 cup of chopped walnuts
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper, to taste
Parmesan cheese, for topping (optional)
Directions:
1. Prepare the spaghetti as directed on the package.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
3. Stir in the red pepper flakes and minced garlic, cooking for 30 seconds or until aromatic.
4. Stir in the chopped kale and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the kale is wilted.
5. Stir in the chopped walnuts and toast them for a further 2 to 3 minutes in the pan.
6. Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan and combine everything, coating the spaghetti with the kale and walnut mixture as you go.
7. To taste, add salt and pepper to the dish.
8. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Conclusion
It need not be challenging or time-consuming to include nutritious foods like kale and walnuts in your meals. In addition to being quick and simple to prepare, this healthful spaghetti meal with walnuts and kale is also delectable and filling. It's ideal for a quick weeknight meal or a relaxing evening at home. Try it out and tell us what you think!
1. Can I use regular spaghetti instead of whole-grain spaghetti?
Yes, if you'd prefer, you may use ordinary spaghetti. However, because it has more fibre and nutrients, whole-grain spaghetti is a healthier choice.
2. Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?
Yes, you can use a different type of nut such as almonds or pecans.
3. Can I use frozen kale instead of fresh kale?
If you don't have any fresh kale on hand, you can use frozen kale. Simply remember to drain and thaw the kale before cooking.
4. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you may increase the flavour and nutritional value of this recipe by including more veggies such bell peppers or cherry tomatoes.
