Kale Pesto Orzo Skillet

Name: Kale Pesto Orzo Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh kale leaves, stems removed; 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup olive oil; 2 cloves garlic; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Vibrant Wellness Recipes

This Kale Pesto Orzo Skillet is a vibrant, nutritious dish that's packed with flavor and easy to prepare. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-29T18:43:28.911Z

This Kale Pesto Orzo Skillet combines the earthy flavors of kale with the creamy texture of orzo, all brought together by a vibrant pesto sauce. It's a dish that not only tastes great but also nourishes the body.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious kale blends perfectly with creamy orzo.
Quick and easy to prepare in just one skillet.
Versatile dish that can be enjoyed hot or cold.

      

A Nutritional Powerhouse

Kale is often hailed as a superfood, and for good reason. This leafy green is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants that help combat inflammation. When blended into a pesto, kale not only adds a vibrant color but also a nutrient boost that elevates any dish. Pairing it with orzo creates a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and healthy.

Orzo, a type of pasta shaped like rice, has a unique texture that makes it an excellent base for absorbing flavors. Combined with the nutrient-dense kale pesto, this dish not only fills you up but also provides essential nutrients and healthy fats, thanks to the addition of walnuts and olive oil. It's a meal that promotes wellness while being incredibly delicious.

Cooking in One Skillet

The beauty of the Kale Pesto Orzo Skillet lies in its simplicity. Cooking everything in one skillet minimizes cleanup time and ensures that all the flavors meld beautifully. This method allows the orzo to soak up the rich and creamy kale pesto, creating a cohesive dish that’s bursting with flavor. It’s a fantastic solution for busy weeknights when you want a nutritious meal without the hassle.

Moreover, one-skillet meals like this one are perfect for meal prep. You can easily scale the recipe to serve a larger group or save leftovers for lunch the next day. Preparing meals in advance not only saves time but also helps in maintaining a healthy diet, especially during a hectic week.

Versatile Serving Options

This Kale Pesto Orzo Skillet is incredibly versatile. While it’s delicious served warm, it's equally delightful chilled, making it an excellent option for picnics or potlucks. You can also customize the recipe by adding proteins such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it more filling. The addition of seasonal vegetables can also enhance the dish, allowing you to make it uniquely yours.

For those looking to add a touch of brightness, consider drizzling some extra lemon juice or zest over the top before serving. Fresh herbs like basil not only add a pop of color but also elevate the flavor profile. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or side, this recipe adapts beautifully to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Kale Pesto

2 cups fresh kale leaves, stems removed
1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Orzo Skillet

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences!

Instructions

Make the Kale Pesto

In a food processor, combine kale, walnuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Pulse until finely chopped. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until smooth. Set aside.

Cook the Orzo

In a large skillet, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally.

Combine Ingredients

Once the orzo is cooked, lower the heat and add the kale pesto, cherry tomatoes, and peas. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.

Serve

Transfer to serving plates and garnish with fresh basil. Enjoy your Kale Pesto Orzo Skillet warm!

For best results, serve immediately and enjoy the fresh flavors!

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! The Kale Pesto Orzo Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or olive oil to restore creaminess.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Just be sure to let the dish cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned above.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

Each component of this dish contributes to its health benefits. Kale offers a wealth of vitamins and minerals, while walnuts provide omega-3 fatty acids, known for their heart-healthy properties. Parmesan cheese adds flavor, and while it's higher in calories, it also contributes protein and calcium, essential for bone health.

Orzo, although a pasta, can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. It provides carbohydrates for energy, and when paired with the kale and peas, it creates a well-rounded meal that keeps you satisfied longer.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different nuts in your kale pesto—pine nuts or almonds can offer a delightful twist. You can also incorporate different greens like spinach or arugula for varied flavors and textures. As for the orzo, substituting it with whole grain or gluten-free pasta can cater to various dietary needs.

For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the kale pesto or garnishing with sliced jalapeños. The versatility of this dish makes it an ideal canvas for your creativity—tailor it to your taste preferences and enjoy!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any small pasta shape will work well in this recipe.

→ How long does the pesto last in the fridge?

The pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the kale pesto?

Yes, you can freeze the pesto for up to 3 months. Just thaw before using.

→ Is this dish vegan?

You can make it vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese or using a vegan alternative.