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This casarecce pasta with butter is a simple yet flavorful dish that feels comforting without being heavy. It’s perfect when you want a cozy dinner that comes together quickly but still feels a bit special with fresh kale and bright lemon.
I first made this on a busy weeknight when I had just a few ingredients on hand. It felt indulgent but light and quickly became a fast favorite for busy evenings.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces casarecce pasta or similar shapes like fusilli penne or rotini gluten-free alternatives work well for dietary needs:
- 6 tablespoons vegan butter for a rich creamy base choose a quality brand for best flavor:
- 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil adds smoothness and helps keep the garlic from burning:
- 6 cloves garlic minced brings aromatic warmth to the sauce fresh garlic works best for that pop of flavor:
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes adds just a touch of heat adjust to taste or omit if you prefer milder:
- 1 large bunch kale thick stems removed and chopped for a hearty green that wilts nicely in the sauce pick fresh vibrant leaves for the best texture:
- 1 large lemon zest and juice brighten the whole dish choose a lemon with a thin skin for more fragrant zest:
- Salt and pepper to taste essential seasonings that bring everything together:
Instructions
- Cook The Pasta:
- Cook the pasta in generously salted water according to the package directions until al dente. This seasoning is key because it is the foundation for a well-flavored dish. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside while you make the sauce.
- Build The Sauce:
- Return the empty pot to the stove set between low and medium-low heat. Add the butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil to melt gently. Stir frequently and cook the minced garlic for 3 to 4 minutes until tender and fragrant but not browned. This slow cooking mellows the garlic and builds great flavor.
- Add Heat and Greens:
- Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes and stir to combine. Then add the chopped kale and turn the heat to medium. Cook the kale until it darkens in color and wilts which usually takes about 2 minutes. This step softens the kale without overcooking, keeping a nice bite.
- Brighten and Combine:
- Zest half the lemon directly into the pot and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together well to combine the flavors. Then slice the remaining half of the lemon and juice it into the pot little by little. Taste as you go and season with salt pepper and extra olive oil to get your perfect balance of tang and seasoning.
- Serve Warm:
- Serve the pasta hot and if you like, garnish with vegan parmesan to add a savory finish.
Lemon is my secret weapon here. Its zest and juice lift every bite making this simple pasta feel fresh and bright. One of my favorite memories is making this on a quiet Sunday afternoon and enjoying leftovers cold for lunch the next day with just a drizzle more olive oil.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil to revive the sauce without drying out the pasta. Avoid freezing as kale’s texture won’t hold up well after thawing.
Ingredient Swaps
Swap kale for spinach or Swiss chard if you want a milder green and faster cooking time. Try regular butter or ghee if not vegan for a richer flavor. Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top for crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Ideas
Serve alongside a fresh green salad with a sharp vinaigrette for contrast. Pair with crusty bread to soak up the buttery garlic sauce. Add a protein like grilled tofu or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
This dish is a quick, flexible weeknight winner that brings brightness and comfort in every bite.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → Can I use other pasta shapes instead of casarecce?
Absolutely! Fusilli, penne, or rotini work well as alternatives, offering similar texture and sauce cling.
- → How do I prevent the garlic from browning during cooking?
Cook the garlic on low to medium-low heat and stir frequently to release its flavors without burning.
- → What’s the best way to prepare the kale for this dish?
Remove the thick stems and chop the leaves coarsely before wilting them gently in the butter and garlic mixture.
- → Can I adjust the heat level in this dish?
Yes, simply increase or reduce the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.
- → How does the lemon enhance the flavors here?
The zest adds aromatic brightness while the juice brings fresh acidity, balancing the richness of butter and kale.