Combine the oats and grated carrot in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 ½ cups water. (Use more or less to achieve desired consistency; 1½ cups water or vegetable broth yields a fairly thick oatmeal.)
Heat until simmering, then cook, stirring often, until everything is tender, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the kale, salsa, and nutritional yeast.
Transfer to individual serving bowls. Sprinkle with smoked paprika and pepper flakes, if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve.
Variation: Swap in different flavors of salsas or pasta sauces to turn this into a whole new dish.
