Pasta And Escarole
Pasta and Escarole is a comforting dish that combines tender escarole with cannellini beans in a flavorful garlic and tomato sauce. Perfect for those seeking a hearty vegetarian meal, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying, making it ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute garlic in olive oil, then add tomato sauce and water, seasoning with salt if desired.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and add escarole gradually.
- Cook until the escarole is tender, about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add water if needed during cooking.
- Five minutes before serving, add the rinsed cannellini beans and heat through.
- Serve with spaghetti and grated cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing some red pepper flakes with the garlic. If escarole isn't available, Swiss chard or kale can be great substitutes. To enhance the dish, you might also stir in some grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish over spaghetti for a hearty meal, and top with grated cheese for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a complete experience, consider accompanying it with a light Italian red wine.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 1-2 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta And Escarole contains roughly 1153 calories, with 4g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 120g fat. It is a good source of iron (14% 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 fresh tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just chop about 2-3 medium tomatoes and sauté them with the garlic until they break down, then add the water. This will give your dish a fresh, vibrant flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan, as it contains no animal products. Just ensure you're using a vegan pasta if you choose to serve it with spaghetti, and you can use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To make it spicier, add some crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or stir in some diced jalapeños along with the escarole. Adjust the spice to your preference for a more robust flavor.
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).