Name: Creamy Tahini Pasta with Lemon, Garlic, and Kale Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: ½ lb fettuccine, half a standard package, or pasta of choice; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 9 large cloves of garlic, minced (about ⅓ cup); 1 medium yellow onion, diced, about 1-1 ½ cups; 2 cups chopped kale, Tuscan or lacinato varieties work best; 1 tsp fine salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp nutritional yeast; ½ cup tahini paste; 1-2 tbsp pure maple syrup, to taste, or substitute agave nectar; Juice and zest of ½ a lemon, to taste; 1-2 cups reserved pasta water; 1-2 pinches red pepper flakes, highly recommended; Salt, to taste; 1 recipe Thank You Berry Much’s Flavorful Crispy Tofu (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 5 reviews

If you love indulgent yet wholesome meals, you are going to adore this Creamy Tahini Pasta with Lemon, Garlic, and Kale Recipe. It’s a beautifully rich and velvety pasta dish that manages to be both comforting and fresh at the same time. The magic lies in the luscious tahini sauce brightened up with zesty lemon and garlicky goodness, all balanced perfectly with nutrient-packed kale for a hint of earthiness and a pop of vibrant green. In under 30 minutes, you get a meal that’s not only incredibly flavorful but also satisfying and nourishing, making it a fantastic weeknight winner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Inside a large brown cooking pot, there are two layers of ingredients visible. The bottom layer is made of small, light golden cooked onion pieces, spread evenly on the pot's base. On top of the onions is a fresh pile of chopped dark green leafy vegetables, covering about half of the onions underneath. The pot is set on a stove with a shiny silver burner below, and the background shows a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are deceptively simple, yet they create a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Each component, from the garlic’s bold aroma to the creamy tahini, plays a crucial role in crafting this dish’s soul. The kale adds a beautiful color contrast and a mild bitterness that pairs wonderfully with the brightness of lemon and the pasta’s silky mouthfeel.

½ lb fettuccine: Choose your favorite pasta shape; fettuccine holds the sauce beautifully.
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: For sautéing and adding a fruity richness.
9 large cloves of garlic, minced (about ⅓ cup): Garlic flavors permeate the dish with warmth and depth.
1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1-1 ½ cups): Adds subtle sweetness and a tender bite.
2 cups chopped kale (Tuscan or lacinato varieties): Offers a hearty texture and vibrant green color.
1 tsp fine salt: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
½ tsp black pepper: Gives just the right amount of gentle heat.
2 tbsp nutritional yeast: Adds a cheesy, umami depth without dairy.
½ cup tahini paste: The star ingredient that creates the creamy backbone of the sauce.
1-2 tbsp pure maple syrup: Balances the tanginess with a hint of sweetness.
Juice and zest of ½ a lemon: Brightens and lifts the flavors effortlessly.
1-2 cups reserved pasta water: Used to loosen and perfect the sauce’s consistency.
1-2 pinches red pepper flakes (optional but recommended): Adds a spicy kick that wakes up your taste buds.
Salt, to taste: To finish seasoning perfectly.
Flavorful Crispy Tofu (optional): For those wanting to add a golden, crunchy protein boost.

How to Make Creamy Tahini Pasta with Lemon, Garlic, and Kale Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pasta

Begin by cooking the fettuccine according to the package instructions. Don’t forget to save about 2 cups of the pasta water before draining—that starchy water is a key secret weapon for achieving that perfect creamy sauce texture later. If the pasta is ready before your sauce, lightly drizzle it with olive oil so it doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat up a large pot or Dutch oven on medium and add your extra virgin olive oil. Toss in the diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions turn translucent and fragrant. This step is where your kitchen will start to smell absolutely incredible, setting the stage for the dish’s layered flavors.

Step 3: Add and Wilt the Kale

Once your onions and garlic have softened, add the chopped kale. Stir it around to help it wilt down and blend with the aromatics. Kale’s hearty greens bring texture and nutrition, making the dish feel both substantial and fresh.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Now it’s time to add the salt, pepper, nutritional yeast, tahini paste, maple syrup, and lemon juice and zest. Stir everything together until the tahini envelops the kale in a silky coating. Then pour in about 1 cup of the reserved pasta water to deglaze the pot, loosening the sauce and making it luscious and smooth. Lower the heat to keep everything warm.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta directly to your sauce and give everything a good stir to coat each strand with that creamy tahini lemon goodness. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash more reserved pasta water until you reach your ideal consistency. The creaminess should be just right for slurping and savoring.

Step 6: Top and Serve

Finish the dish by sprinkling red pepper flakes for a touch of heat and salt to taste. For an optional protein boost and delightful crunch, add some crispy tofu on top. This extra layer elevates the dish and makes it perfect for a hearty meal.

How to Serve Creamy Tahini Pasta with Lemon, Garlic, and Kale Recipe

The dish shows a white bowl filled with creamy fettuccine pasta mixed with green leafy parts and topped with golden brown small cubes of fried tofu that have a slightly crispy texture. A silver fork is stuck into the pasta on the left side of the bowl. In the background, there is another white bowl filled with more tofu cubes, slightly out of focus. A yellow lemon wedge is placed on the white marbled surface behind the bowls, adding a pop of color. The overall scene is warm and inviting, with a close-up view emphasizing the texture of the pasta and tofu. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or basil go wonderfully with this creamy tahini pasta. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds adds a lovely crunch and a nutty aroma. Don’t hesitate to add an extra twist of lemon zest for a burst of zing just before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables, especially Brussels sprouts or carrots, complement it beautifully too. If you want a warm side, garlic bread or a rustic crusty loaf is always a crowd-pleaser.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls with a generous drizzle of olive oil and a few fresh kale leaves for visual appeal. You can also layer crispy tofu atop each plate like an elegant finishing touch. Sharing this vibrant, creamy pasta in a large serving dish at family dinners invites everyone to dig in joyfully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover creamy tahini pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or last-minute dinners. Just be sure to stir gently before reheating to redistribute the sauce.

Freezing

While the sauce’s texture might change slightly after freezing, you can freeze this dish for up to a month. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the flavors and creaminess as much as possible.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, adding a splash of water or olive oil if the sauce thickens. This will help restore that luscious smooth texture and keep your Creamy Tahini Pasta with Lemon, Garlic, and Kale Recipe tasting just as delightful as fresh.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine is perfect for holding the creamy sauce, any pasta shape like penne, linguine, or even spaghetti will work wonderfully. Just cook according to package instructions.

Is tahini paste hard to find?

Not at all. Tahini is widely available in grocery stores, usually near the nut butters or international aisle. You can choose from raw or roasted tahini depending on your flavor preference.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Creamy Tahini Pasta with Lemon, Garlic, and Kale Recipe is completely plant-based and naturally vegan. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor, and the optional tofu topping boosts protein while keeping it vegan-friendly.

What can I substitute for nutritional yeast?

If you don’t have nutritional yeast on hand, you can substitute with a little miso paste or vegan Parmesan for a similar umami punch. Keep in mind the flavor profile will shift slightly.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on how much red pepper flakes you add. The recipe suggests 1-2 pinches to add a gentle zing, but you can adjust depending on your heat tolerance, even omitting them if preferred.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tahini Pasta with Lemon, Garlic, and Kale Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s nutritious, incredibly flavorful, and satisfying without being heavy. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!