Kale Pesto Pasta with Sausage, Peppers and Onions

Kale has great health benefits and is rich in calcium, iron and vitamin C to name a few.

1/2 bunch kale (stems discarded and leaves coarsely chopped)
Germelli pasta
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1 toasted garlic clove
1/2 cup of grated parmesan (plus some for garnish - optional)
salt and pepper for seasoning
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
italian sausage links (about 4 or 5)
red onion, sliced length wise and then cut in half (about 1 to 1 1/2 inch slices)
yellow bell pepper, sliced length wise and then cut in half (about 1 to 1 1/2 inch slices)
red bell pepper, sliced length wise and then cut in half (about 1 to 1 1/2 inch slices)

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook kale for about 4 to 5 minutes, until tender. Drain kale in a colander and rinse with cold water.

Squeeze kale to remove excess water. Place kale in a food processor and add walnuts, garlic, parmesan and olive oil. Process until almost smooth and season with salt and pepper.

Begin bringing a large pot of water to boil for the pasta.

In a large non-stick sauté pan, drizzle with olive oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add sausage and brown on all sides. Remove sausage and cut into medium-thin slices. Add the sliced sausage back to the sauté pan and add onions and bell pepper. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until onions and bell peppers begin to soften and just starting to brown (caramelize).

While cooking sausage, bell peppers and onions, cook pasta according to package directions.

Once pasta is done, drain and add to sauté pan. Toss to mix ingredients. Add pesto and mix thoroughly and then turn off heat.

Serve garnished with shredded parmesan and ENJOY!

Wine Pairing......Merlot.