Pasta With Cannellini Beans
A hearty, flavorful pasta dish with cannellini beans, fresh herbs, and tomatoes, perfect for a quick vegetarian meal or a satisfying side with meat dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil, salt, and pepper in a pan.
- Add bay leaves and scallions; heat for a moment.
- Add crushed garlic, chopped basil, oregano, and cannellini beans; cook until heated through.
- Add canned tomatoes, a little water, and a pinch of sugar to reduce acidity.
- Simmer until flavors meld; serve hot, alone or with salad and rolls.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using extra virgin olive oil and fresh herbs like thyme or parsley if you don't have oregano. If you prefer a heartier dish, feel free to toss in some sautéed vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers. To enhance the dish, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dash of red pepper flakes can elevate the overall flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta dish hot, garnished with additional fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, like Spinach, Rice And Bell Pepper Salad, or crusty rolls for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside grilled chicken or a side of Greek Fasolada (Dry Beans Soup) for a Mediterranean flair.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta With Cannellini Beans contains roughly 481 calories, with 23g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (222% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 686mg per serving (30% 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 dried cannellini beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans, but they will require soaking and cooking beforehand. To use dried beans, soak them overnight, then cook until tender before adding them to the recipe. This will ensure they are properly cooked and flavorful.
What can I substitute for basil if I don't have any?
If fresh basil isn't available, you can substitute it with a teaspoon of dried basil or use other fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro. Each will provide a different flavor profile, but they can still complement the dish well.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this pasta with cannellini beans is entirely plant-based, making it a great option for vegan diets. Just ensure that any additional ingredients, like side dishes or garnishes, are also vegan-friendly to maintain the dish's integrity.
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).