Week #4 Lemony Kale and Spinach with Tofu Pasta

This week's dedication goes to Siva. He was my senior in Perks school and now lives in Perth, Australia. From the photos he posts, I am quite sure he is an ardent and enthusiastic cook. So, Siva- heres to you!!!

Though Kale is touted as the new superfood, not many know about it or have tried it the right way. I, on, the other hand, am a huge fan of Kale, spinach, collard greens, etc. So, here is my concoction of Kale and spinach with lemon zest and tofu is a slightly Mediterranean inspired pasta. This entire combo is so full of nutrients and is a power packed meal. I used a flat rice noodle, but you can use any noodle in this dish. I have completely omitted cheese in this dish, so its Vegan friendly! I especially, like the lemon flavor going through the dish and the added flavor also from a good quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

Lemony Kale and Spinach with Tofu Pasta
Ingredients
Kale- 1 bunch
spinach 1 bunch
Noodles- Any Spaghetti,angel hair,linguine, etc. cooked according to package instructions
Garlic- 2-3 pods- minced
Extra firm tofu- drained and crumbled
Onion- 1 medium
Lemon zest- 1 tablespoon
Lemon Juice- 1 Tablespoon
Good quality Extra Virgin Olive oil- 2 tablespoon
Black Pepper- 1 teaspoon
Salt- to taste



Method:
Wash and trim Kale and spinach and cut into bite size pieces. Pour 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin oil in a hot saute pan. Add garlic, and onions and saute for 1 min until onion starts getting brown. Then add the greens( Kale and spinach) and saute on high heat or 2 minutes. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon water and reduce heat and cover by letting the Kale cook for about 7-10 minutes until it has fairly softened. Increase heat, so most of the water is gone.Please note Kale holds its shape and its not necessary to cook it further in this recipe. The crunch of the Kale is essential. Now add salt, black pepper and lemon zest and tofu and keep the heat at high for 2 inutes, stirring carefully the whole time. Now squeeze lemon juice. Run the cooked noodles in cold water and drain and immediately toss with the Kale and Tofu mixture. Add the other tablespoon of Olive oil on top and enjoy!!!!