Did you know that a single serving of this pasta dish can provide up to 20 grams of plant-based protein? That’s the power of combining nutrient-dense beans and leafy greens with comforting pasta. This easy-to-prepare recipe puts pantry staples to work, creating a wholesome and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a new weeknight favorite.
The classic combination of beans and greens makes for an easy, hearty, and nutritious pasta sauce. Bean cooking liquid (or stock) boosts flavor while starch from the beans and pasta water gives the sauce a creamy consistency without adding dairy. Garlic, anchovies, and dried chiles form a flavorful base for the sauce, along with a splash of white wine for acidity and subtle sweetness. Finishing the pasta in the sauce ensures the noodles are well coated and perfectly al dente. This pasta is at its best when enjoyed immediately, but it does keep well for leftovers, too.
Introducing a Wholesome One-Pot Meal
When it comes to crafting delicious and nourishing meals, we believe in maximizing the potential of simple, wholesome ingredients. Our pasta with beans and greens embodies this philosophy, showcasing the power of plant-based proteins, nutrient-dense leafy greens, and comforting pasta in a harmonious one-pot dish.
Beans: A Plant-Based Protein Powerhouse
Beans are a staple in many global cuisines, particularly in the Mediterranean diet and Italian cuisine, where they are celebrated for their plant-based proteins, fiber, and other essential nutrients. Whether you opt for cooked-from-dried beans or reach for a convenient can, these versatile legumes form the foundation of our flavorful pasta dish.
Leafy Greens: A Nutritional Boost
Hearty, toothsome greens like Tuscan kale, chard, or spinach add a vibrant, Mediterranean diet-inspired touch to this one-pot meal. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, these leafy powerhouses complement the protein-rich beans, creating a well-balanced and nourishing pasta dish.
Pasta: A Comforting Carb Option
No Italian cuisine-inspired dish would be complete without the addition of pasta. In this case, we’ve chosen short, tubular shapes like paccheri or rigatoni that allow the creamy bean sauce to cling to the noodles. The starch from the pasta cooking water helps emulsify the sauce, giving it a luxurious texture without the need for dairy.
Preparing the Pasta with Beans and Greens
This recipe for
pasta with beans and greens
is highly adaptable, allowing you to use what you have on hand. In addition to the classic combination of white beans and kale, you can substitute other
plant-based proteins
like chickpeas or lentils, and swap in spinach, chard, or other hearty greens. The recipe also works with a variety of
pasta shapes
, from whole wheat to gluten-free options. Anchovies add savory depth to the sauce, but can be omitted for a
vegetarian pasta dish
.
Ingredients and Substitutions
The beauty of this one-pot meal is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different beans, greens, and pasta shapes to suit your tastes and pantry. Anchovies provide a flavorful base, but can be left out for a meatless Monday recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
The preparation process for this healthy pasta dish is straightforward. First, the garlic and anchovies (if using) are gently cooked in olive oil, then the beans and white wine are added, simmered until thickened. The pasta is cooked separately, with the kale or other greens added towards the end, allowing them to wilt. The cooked pasta is then tossed with the bean mixture, along with some of the starchy pasta cooking water, which helps the Italian cuisine-inspired sauce coat the noodles. The dish is finished with a generous amount of grated Pecorino Romano cheese.
Pasta with Beans and Greens: A Versatile Dish
This pasta with beans and greens is a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your tastes and pantry. The combination of protein-rich beans, nutrient-dense greens, and comforting pasta creates a satisfying and balanced meal. It’s a great example of how humble, budget-friendly ingredients can come together to make a delicious and nourishing dish.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a heartier meal for special occasions, this pasta with beans and greens is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. The one-pot meals and meatless Monday recipes featuring this dish are perfect for those seeking healthy pasta meals and vegetarian pasta dishes that are both satisfying and nutritious.
The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it to your preferences and the ingredients you have on hand. Experiment with different types of beans and greens to create unique flavor profiles and keep your meals interesting. This Italian cuisine-inspired dish is a fantastic way to incorporate plant-based proteins into your diet and enjoy the comforting benefits of pasta.