Spinach And Bean Minestra
A hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired soup featuring spinach, cannellini beans, bacon, and Romano cheese, perfect for cozy meals and packed with savory goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a heavy pot over medium heat.
- Cook the bacon until it is done, but not crisp.
- Pour off all but about 6 tablespoons of the fat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring, until golden.
- Add the cooked, drained, and chopped spinach along with its cooking water, salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Add the cooked ditalini, undrained cannellini beans, and cook over low heat for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the grated Romano cheese and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using smoked bacon or pancetta instead of regular bacon. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with mushrooms for a umami kick. Use fresh spinach whenever possible, but frozen spinach can work in a pinch; just be sure to drain it well. Experiment with different pasta shapes like orzo or even use chickpeas instead of cannellini beans for a variation.
Serving Suggestions
This Spinach and Bean Minestra pairs beautifully with crusty bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or as a starter before a main course like Chicken Rollantini With Pesto. For a heartier option, add some grilled sausage on the side or mix in some cooked quinoa for additional protein.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the soup if necessary. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just be aware that the texture of the spinach may change slightly upon reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach And Bean Minestra contains roughly 672 calories, with 20g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (180% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (134% of the Daily Value), and calcium (104% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2479mg per serving (108% 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 other types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cannellini beans are traditional, you can substitute with great northern beans or even black beans for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of beans you choose.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of water. You can also enhance the flavor by adding sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika to imitate the depth that bacon provides.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicier version, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. Alternatively, you could include diced jalapeños or even a spicy Italian sausage if you prefer a meatier kick. Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.
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).