Acorn Squash And Kale Over Penne Recipe

This 30-minute recipe from a health magazine is a delicious and healthy twist on classic pasta. Sweet acorn squash and nutritious kale combine with penne pasta for a satisfying meal that's both comforting and good for you. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Calories 288.2 kcal
Protein 21g
Rating 5.0 (2 Reviews)
Acorn Squash And Kale Over Penne 28

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Acorn Squash And Kale Over Penne

  • 1 medium acorn squash
  • 1/4 cup water
  • Olive Oil
  • Garlic Cloves
  • 5 ounces (140g) chopped kale
  • Vegetable Broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Cooked Penne
  • Parmesan Cheese

How to Make Acorn Squash And Kale Over Penne

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Halve and deseed one medium acorn squash. Place cut-side down in a casserole dish with 1/4 cup water.
  3. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and microwave on high for 7-10 minutes, or until tender. Alternatively, roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes.
  4. While squash cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
  5. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  6. Add 5 ounces (140g) chopped kale and 1/2 cup vegetable broth.
  7. Cover and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until kale is wilted.
  8. Uncover and cook for 1 minute more.
  9. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg.
  10. Once the squash is tender, scoop out the flesh and add it to the Dutch oven along with 1 cup cooked penne pasta.
  11. Toss gently to combine.
  12. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
  13. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

12 g

Sugar

0g

Fat

12g

Carbs

16g

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