Pasta Beans
A hearty, comforting pasta and beans dish with rich tomato flavors and aromatic herbs, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- On low heat, fry garlic in oil until lightly browned.
- Add tomato paste, water, and seasonings (black pepper, oregano, basil, parsley, celery salt).
- Bring to a boil and simmer for 45 minutes.
- Cook pasta separately according to package instructions.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce and beans, then top with Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a dash of crushed red pepper for some heat. If you don't have Great Northern beans, any white bean like cannellini can work in a pinch. For a creamier sauce, stir in a bit of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta before serving. This dish pairs well with Bebont Homemade Pasta for an extra fresh touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta and beans dish with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top adds richness. This dish also pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a light red, making it a perfect choice for a casual dinner or a gathering with friends.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and heat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stopping to stir every minute until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Beans contains roughly 828 calories, with 64g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (285% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (199% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 823mg per serving (36% 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 paste?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you'll need to cook them down to create a sauce. Approximately 2-3 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes should suffice, and you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they break down properly.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. There are many delicious plant-based cheeses available that can provide a similar flavor and texture.
Can I freeze this pasta and beans dish?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
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).