Spaghetti with Kale Pesto and Meatballs
By 
Yields:
4
Prep Time:
35 mins
Total Time:
35 mins
Jump to recipeThanks to walnuts and kale, this killer riff on pesto is anything but classic.
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Ingredients
- 1 bunch Tuscan kale, tough stems removed and leaves finely chopped
- 2 small cloves garlic, chopped
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 2 tsp. grated lemon zest
- 1/4 cup freshly squeeze lemon juice
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
- 1/2 cup plus 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 lb. sausage meat (such as sweet Italian or garlic and herb)
- 16 oz. dried spaghetti
Directions
- Step 1Make pesto: In a food processor, pulse together kale, garlic, walnuts, and lemon zest and juice. Add Parmesan and ¼ cup olive oil and pulse to form a thick paste. Add ¼ more cup olive oil in a slow steady stream, then season with salt and pepper.
- Step 2Make meatballs: Roll sausage into 1" meatballs. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add meatballs and cook, stirring, until browned, 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer meatballs to a paper towel-lined plate, then pour grease out of skillet and wipe clean with a paper towel.
- Step 3Meanwhile, in a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water, and return to pot.
- Step 4Add pasta, pesto, and 1/4 cup pasta water to skillet and cook, stirring regularly, 1 to 2 minutes over low heat until pasta is evenly coated. Add meatballs and gently toss to warm.
- Step 5Divide pasta into bowls and top with Parm.
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