Description
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups fresh spinach
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in white beans and cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
Add fresh spinach, stirring until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Remove from heat and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve warm as a side dish or light meal.
Prep Time: 5 minutes, Cooking Time: 5 minutes, Total Time: 10 minutes, Kcal: 180 per serving, Servings: 2
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped and measured before heating your skillet. This is a fast-cooking dish. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Next, add the drained and rinsed white beans. Cook for 2–3 minutes, gently stirring to coat the beans in the flavored oil and warm them through. Now, add all 4 cups of fresh spinach. It will seem like a lot, but it wilts quickly. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes until the spinach is fully wilted. Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Toss everything to combine.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish can be the star or a supporting player. Serve it warm as a light vegetarian main course with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. It makes an excellent side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or sausages. For a heartier meal, spoon it over cooked quinoa, rice, or pasta, adding a splash of pasta water to create a light sauce. Top with a poached or fried egg for a delicious breakfast or brunch option. The optional Parmesan cheese adds a savory, salty finish, but crumbled feta or goat cheese are also excellent alternatives.
How-to Summary
Sauté garlic and chili flakes in oil. Add beans to warm through. Wilt the spinach in the same pan. Finish with lemon juice and seasonings off the heat. Optional cheese adds a flavorful finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of bean? Absolutely. Cannellini beans are classic, but great northern beans or even chickpeas work well for a different texture and flavor.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a small splash of water if it seems dry.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as the spinach will become mushy and the beans may become grainy in texture upon thawing.
How can I make this dish creamier? For a creamier texture, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream, coconut milk, or a dollop of Greek yogurt just before serving.
What can I use instead of fresh spinach? You can substitute with 1 cup of frozen chopped spinach. Thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess liquid before adding it to the skillet with the beans.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid burning the garlic by keeping the heat at medium and sautéing for only 1 minute until fragrant. Do not skip draining and rinsing the canned beans, as the leftover starchy liquid can make the dish gloppy. Do not overcook the spinach; it should be just wilted to retain nutrients and texture. Remember to add the lemon juice and seasonings after removing the skillet from heat to preserve the lemon’s bright, fresh flavor. Finally, do not add the optional Parmesan cheese while the skillet is still on the heat, as it can melt into a clumpy mess.
Conclusion
This garlic white beans and spinach recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a deeply flavorful and nutritious dish in just minutes. It’s a perfect template for a quick weeknight meal, a elegant side, or a base for further culinary creativity. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this reliable recipe. Keep the serving suggestions in mind to adapt it to any occasion, making it a valuable addition to your cooking repertoire.
