Olivia Harper is a journalist and Associate News & Trending Editor for wholeliving.. Her current beat is focused on food and health news as well as exclusive celebrity features, regularly interviewing the top names of today’s entertainment industry. She previous worked as the 2022-23 fellow and as an assistant editor for the brand. Her passion for reading, writing and eating local all guide her in her position at wholeliving.
Published on January 5, 2025
Last updated on February 18, 2025
Olivia Harper
Olivia Harper is a journalist and Associate News & Trending Editor for wholeliving.. Her current beat is focused on food and health news as well as exclusive celebrity features, regularly interviewing the top names of today’s entertainment industry. She previous worked as the 2022-23 fellow and as an assistant editor for the brand. Her passion for reading, writing and eating local all guide her in her position at wholeliving.
In This Article
This Penne with Goat Cheese, Kale, Olives, and Turkey is a light yet satisfying meal that’s a refreshing change from heavier dishes like tetrazzini or a la king. The creamy goat cheese melts into a luscious sauce, combining with whole wheat penne, nutrient-packed kale, and savory olives for a wholesome and delicious meal. It's the perfect way to give leftover turkey a new twist while keeping things healthy.
Penne with Goat Cheese, Kale, Olives, and Turkey
Course: MainCuisine: Mediterranean
Servings
4
servings
Prep time
10
minutes
Cooking time
20
minutes
Calories
450
kcal
A flavorful pasta dish with creamy goat cheese, hearty kale, briny olives, and tender turkey for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
2 cups leftover turkey, shredded
8 oz whole wheat penne pasta
4 oz goat cheese
2 cups fresh kale, chopped
1/4 cup black or Kalamata olives, sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup reserved pasta water
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
Cook the whole wheat penne according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the chopped kale to the skillet and sauté for 3-5 minutes until wilted.
Stir in the shredded turkey and sliced olives, cooking for another 2 minutes until heated through.
Lower the heat and add the goat cheese to the skillet. Pour in the reserved pasta water, stirring until the goat cheese melts into a creamy sauce.
Toss the cooked penne into the skillet, ensuring everything is evenly coated in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
This Penne with Goat Cheese, Kale, Olives, and Turkey is a light, creamy dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. The goat cheese creates a rich sauce, while the kale and olives add a delightful balance of textures. It's a simple, healthy, and satisfying way to enjoy your leftover turkey.