Beans With Spinach
A hearty and flavorful vegetarian dish featuring tender beans simmered with garlic, fresh tomatoes, spinach, and aromatic spices, perfect for nutritious, comforting meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the dried beans in enough water to cover for 2 hours. Drain the beans.
- Cook the drained beans in fresh unsalted water until almost tender.
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the beans and cook until fully tender. Drain the beans.
- In a large skillet, heat 4 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down slightly.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
- Mix in the cooked beans and sprinkle with paprika and chopped parsley.
- Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker version, you can use canned beans instead of dried; just rinse and drain them before adding to the skillet. If fresh tomatoes are not available, use canned diced tomatoes for a similar flavor. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with *Spinach With Rice for a hearty meal. It can be served as a main course or a side dish alongside grilled meats or fish. For a Mediterranean twist, consider serving it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. A light salad dressed with Sweet Basil Salad Dressing complements the dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm the beans and spinach mixture in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. This dish also freezes well; just ensure it's cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beans With Spinach contains roughly 630 calories, with 9g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (77% of the Daily Value), iron (67% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1912mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach is a great substitute. Just thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet. It cooks down quickly, so you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, ensuring it is heated through before mixing with the beans.
How do I know when the beans are fully cooked?
The beans should be tender but not mushy. After adding salt, cook them until they are easily mashed with a fork. If using dried beans, the cooking time may vary based on the type, so keep checking for doneness. If using canned beans, simply heat them until warmed through.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of balsamic vinegar just before serving to brighten the flavors. Fresh herbs like oregano or thyme can also enhance the dish. For a richer taste, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top can create a delicious finish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).