Nana'S Spinach And Beans
A hearty and nutritious spinach and bean stew with garlic and parsley, perfect for a quick, flavorful vegetarian meal that combines wholesome ingredients and simple flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, add 1 cup of water, chopped garlic, oil, and some parsley.
- When the water boils, add the frozen spinach and let cook for about 10 minutes.
- Add the whole, undrained can of red kidney beans.
- Cover and let cook for about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the garlic in the oil before adding the water to enhance the aroma. If you have fresh spinach on hand, feel free to substitute it for the frozen variety; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can also use cannellini beans instead of kidney beans for a creamier texture. This dish is versatile, making it a great base for a variety of flavors, similar to the Berry Good Smoothie.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Nana's Spinach and Beans over a bed of rice or quinoa for a nutritious meal. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, like a Kraut Salad Relish, to balance the flavors. You can also top it with some grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of yogurt for creaminess. This dish makes for a hearty lunch or dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through. This dish can also be enjoyed cold, making it a refreshing addition to a lunch box.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nana'S Spinach And Beans contains roughly 564 calories, with 6g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach in place of frozen. Just be sure to wash and chop it before adding it to the saucepan. Fresh spinach cooks down quickly, so you may want to reduce the cooking time to about 5-7 minutes.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be prepared in advance. Just make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating. It reheats nicely, making it a perfect option for lunch throughout the week.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add in other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even corn for added nutrition and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything cooks evenly.
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).