An easy, flavorful orecchiette pasta recipe with spinach and kale. This healthy, comforting pasta is full of greens, toasted pine nuts, and parmesan. Ideal for weeknights, this pasta is ready in under 30 mins. Vegetarian and gluten-free friendly.

Easy Orecchiette Pasta with Spinach, Kale, and Pine Nuts

The pup and I were tucked inside for most of today, escaping the rain. The Honey is away for work again this week, which makes it three out of the last four weeks that he’s been gone. So as not to spend too much time missing him (especially in this snuggle-inspiring weather), I’ve been Spring cleaning, baking up a storm, and planning all sorts of lovely new recipes to share with you.

When it’s just me, I tend to fall back on classic pasta dishes that cook quickly and make for easy leftovers. Craving something warm and comforting today, I whipped up this simple pasta dish for lunch; little orecchiette pasta tossed with fresh spinach and kale leaves in a quick olive oil and garlic sauce.

Adorned with a sprinkling of toasted pine nuts, a generous amount of Parmesan, and buttery breadcrumbs, this dish makes for a healthy and flavorful weekday meal. Happy cooking!!

A close up of dry orecchiette pasta.

More Pasta Recipes to Make Next:

If you make this easy kale orecchiette pasta recipe, be sure to leave a comment and rating below letting me know how you liked it! ★★★★★ Star ratings are especially helpful because they help others find my recipes too. xo, Laura

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
A bowl full of orecchiette pasta topped with wilted spinach, kale, toasted pine nuts, grated parmesan, and breadcrumbs.

Orecchiette with Wilted Spinach, Kale and Toasted Pine Nuts

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 1 review
  • Author: Laura Bolton – Fork Knife Swoon
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 15
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 Servings 1x
  • Category: Pasta, Savory
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

An easy, flavorful orecchiette pasta recipe with spinach and kale. This healthy, comforting pasta is full of greens, toasted pine nuts, and parmesan. Ideal for weeknights, this pasta is ready in under 30 mins. Vegetarian and gluten-free friendly.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 lb orecchiette pasta
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts
  • 3 Tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 1/4 cup plain panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
  • half of a medium sweet or yellow onion, minced
  • 1 Tbsp fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 cups (packed) fresh spinach
  • 2 cups (packed) fresh kale, torn into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup freshly-grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Salt generously and add the pasta. Cook al dente according to package directions, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-heat. Add the pine nuts and toast, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  3. Return the skillet to the burner, and heat 1/2 Tablespoon of the olive oil over medium heat. Add the panko and stir to combine. Cook for a few minutes, stirring often, until golden. Transfer to a small plate or bowl and set aside.
  4. Add the remaining olive oil, along with the butter to the skillet, and return to medium heat. Once the butter melts, add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes until the onion begins to soften.
  5. Add the garlic, and continue cooking for 2-3 more minutes until fragrant and softened.
  6. Add the spinach and kale leaves, and stir to combine.
  7. Meanwhile, drain the pasta. Add to the skillet, and stir to combine until the spinach and kale have softened and begin to wilt.
  8. Toss the pasta with the toasted pine nuts, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan. Season generously with salt and pepper, to taste. Serve immediately with additional Parmesan. Enjoy!!

Equipment

Notes

  • Make it gluten-free: simply use a gluten-free pasta of your choice. We love the brand Jovial!

This recipe was originally published in April 2013. We’ve since added new photos, notes, and recipe improvements.