Skip to main content

Kale Pesto With Whole Wheat Pasta

This vibrant kale pesto with whole wheat pasta offers a fresh, nutrient-dense twist on the classic Italian sauce. By using earthy Tuscan kale and buttery pistachios instead of the traditional basil and pine nuts, you create a deep, savoury flavour profile that pairs beautifully with the nuttiness of wholemeal grains. It is a wonderful way to pack more leafy greens into your diet while enjoying a plate of pure comfort food.

As a quick vegetarian dinner, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome yet satisfying. The secret to the silky finish lies in the starchy pasta cooking water, which helps the pesto emulsify into a glossy sauce that clings to every strand. Serve it with an extra grating of Parmesan and a glass of crisp white wine for a simple, elegant supper.

Video picks

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Kale Pesto With Whole Wheat Pasta

  • 1 large bunch Tuscan kale, ribs and stems removed

  • Kosher salt

  • 350g farro pasta or whole wheat pasta

  • 80ml raw pistachios

  • 60ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 garlic clove

  • 30g Parmesan, finely grated, plus more for serving

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • Freshly ground black pepper

Cook kale leaves in a large pot of boiling salted water until bright green and wilted, about 30 seconds. Transfer to a rimmed baking sheet with tongs; keep water boiling. Let kale cool slightly; wring out excess water with your hands.

Cook pasta in pot of boiling water, stirring occasionally, until al dente.

Blend nuts, oil, garlic, and 80ml water in a blender or food processor until very smooth. Add kale and 30g Parmesan. Purée, adding water 1 tablespoon at a time as needed, until smooth. Transfer pesto to a large bowl.

Using tongs, transfer pasta to bowl with pesto; add butter and 80ml pasta cooking liquid. Toss, adding more pasta cooking liquid by the tablespoonful if needed, until sauce coats pasta. Divide among bowls; top with more Parmesan and a few grinds of pepper.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.