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Pasta with kale, bacon and caramelized onions close up showing the curly noodles.

Pasta with Kale, Bacon and Caramelized Onions

LindySez
Love kale or never had it, this recipe for Pasta with Kale, Bacon, and Caramelized Onions is one to try! Simple and delicious.
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Prep Time 4 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 29 minutes
Course Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4
Calories 354 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces Cavatappi pasta or other short, tubular pasta
  • 4 slices thick-sliced applewood smoked bacon coarsely diced
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 8 – 10 ounces bagged Tuscan kale chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
  • Freshly ground Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Cook the pasta according to package directions, drain reserving ½ cup pasta water. Set – aside.
  • While the pasta cooks heat the oil in a large skillet, add the bacon and cook until crisp. Remove and set aside.
  • To the oil, (add or remove to make about 3 tablespoons) add the onion, lower the heat and caramelize the onion until deep brown, about 10 – 15 minutes, stirring often. Remove and set aside.
  • Add the kale to the skillet and stir until it is well coated with the oil; add the garlic along with 1 cup water; stir; bring to a simmer, cover and cook for 5 – 6 minutes, or until tender, adding more water if necessary. When tender, add the pasta along with the bacon and onions, mix well. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground pepper, heat through, adding some of the pasta cooking liquid if it seems too dry. Spoon into warmed wide bowls and sprinkle with cheese, if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gSodium: 498mgFiber: 3gCholesterol: 11mgCalories: 354kcalPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gFat: 11gProtein: 18gCarbohydrates: 51g
Keyword kale pasta bacon, pasta side
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