Pasta and Beans
Pasta and Beans is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the goodness of pasta with nutritious beans. It’s a simple meal that can be made in one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home. This recipe is not just filling; it’s also delicious and healthy!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Pasta and Beans is a great decision for several reasons. First, it’s easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients. Second, it’s a budget-friendly meal that can feed a family. Lastly, this dish is nutritious, offering protein from the beans and fiber from the vegetables. It’s a fulfilling choice for lunch or dinner that everyone can enjoy.
How to Make Pasta and Beans
Ingredients:
- Olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups pasta (small type like ditalini or elbow)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery, and sauté until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add canned diced tomatoes and vegetable broth, then bring to a boil.
- Add cannellini beans and pasta, and cook until pasta is al dente.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
How to Serve Pasta and Beans
Pasta and Beans is best served hot. You can dish it out in bowls and top each serving with fresh basil for a pop of color and added flavor. This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a simple salad on the side.
How to Store Pasta and Beans
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to a month. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Tips to Make Pasta and Beans
- Use any vegetables you have on hand; spinach or zucchini are great options.
- To make it creamier, you can add a splash of cream or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese when serving.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding herbs like oregano or thyme for more flavor.
Variation
You can easily adapt this recipe by using different types of beans, like kidney beans or black beans. You can also try adding cooked sausage or bacon for a meatier option if you prefer.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan as it uses vegetable broth and does not contain any animal products.
2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Pasta and Beans gluten-free, just use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta.
3. Can I cook this in advance?
Absolutely! You can make it a day before and reheat it for an easy meal. Just remember that the pasta may absorb some of the broth as it sits, so you might want to add a bit of water or broth when reheating.
