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Rigatoni with Tomato, Kale and Fontina

4 to 6 Servings

35 minutes

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This one-pot pasta dish lets pantry ingredients do the heavy lifting. Fennel seeds, red pepper flakes and rosemary are bloomed in olive oil to release their essential oils before a full can of tomato paste, which provides a bulk of the flavor backbone, goes into the mix. Cooking the paste until browned develops flavor compounds that make this vegetarian dish rich and savory. Of course, the cheese helps, too. Diced fontina melts into the pasta, creating a creamy, unctuous texture; Taleggio also is a delicious option. We prefer lacinato kale, which sometimes is sold as Tuscan or dinosaur kale. Bunches vary in size; you’ll need about 1 pound—one large bunch or two small ones—so if in doubt, toss the kale onto the produce scale at the supermarket.

4 to 6

Servings

Tip

Don’t forget to reserve about 2 cups cooking water before draining the pasta-kale mixture. You’ll need the starchy seasoned liquid to create silky sauced noodles.

35 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1

    pound rigatoni or ziti

  • Kosher salt and ground black pepper

Directions

Pardon the interruption

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Reviews
Robert G.
May 9, 2023
Delicious and easy
Really enjoyed this one, short ingredient list, came together quick. Only thing I'd consider changing was how I added the cheese, really made cleaning up a mess. Will definitely make again.
Patricia H.
July 26, 2023
Simple to prepare, complex flavor
I was looking for something to do with an abundance of garden kale other than a salad. This recipe checked all of the boxes. I wouldn't recommend a substitute for the fontina cheese, just plan ahead.