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Tasty Kale Pasta Salad with Sun Dried Tomatoes

Fresh kale, rotini pasta, and sun dried tomatoes tossed in a basil-garlic dressing.
Loaded with parmesan, feta, and toasted pine nuts.
A healthy vegetarian pasta salad perfect for meal prep and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

For the Salad

  • 1 cup rotini pasta
  • 2½ cups kale stems removed and leaves torn into 1-inch pieces
  • ½ cup sun dried tomatoes finely sliced into thin julienne strips
  • ⅓ cup parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup feta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts

For the Dressing

  • ½ cup fresh basil packed tightly
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  • While the pasta cooks, remove the stems from the kale and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Slice the sun dried tomatoes, measure the cheeses, and prepare the lemon zest.
  • Drain the pasta and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

  • Add the basil, garlic cloves, olive oil, white wine vinegar, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper to a food processor.
  • Blend until smooth and combined. For added texture, pulse the basil rather than completely pureeing it.
  • Taste and adjust seasonings if desired.

Step 3: Massage the Kale

  • Place the kale in a large mixing bowl.
  • Add about 2 tablespoons of the prepared dressing and massage the leaves with your hands for 1–2 minutes.
  • The kale should soften, darken slightly, and become more tender.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

  • Add the cooked pasta, sun dried tomatoes, parmesan, feta, and toasted pine nuts to the bowl with the kale.
  • Pour the remaining dressing over the salad.
  • Gently toss until everything is evenly coated. This Tasty Kale Pasta Salad with Sun Dried Tomatoes develops even more flavor when thoroughly mixed.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

  • Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or airtight container.
  • Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
  • Serve chilled and enjoy.

Notes

  • Goat cheese can replace feta for a creamier texture.
  • Walnuts or almonds work well instead of pine nuts.
  • Add cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or avocado for additional freshness.
  • Serve alongside grilled fish, roasted vegetables, or sandwiches.
  • The flavors continue to improve after chilling.