Orecchiette With White Beans and Spinach: A Simple, Wholesome Weeknight Dinner
Savor comfort with this speedy orecchiette, white beans, and spinach dish packed with flavor, nutrition, and simplicity for busy weeknights.
Orecchiette With White Beans and Spinach: An Uncomplicated Classic
If you’re searching for a dinner that’s as nourishing as it is simple, look no further than this easy orecchiette with white beans and spinach recipe. This dish combines tender pasta, creamy beans, and fresh vegetables in a light, flavorsome broth—perfect for quick weeknight meals that don’t compromise on flavor or nutrition.
With minimal prep and a single pan, you’ll have a comforting meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Quick to prepare: Ready in 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Flavorful but light: Garlic-infused broth and Parmesan offer richness without heaviness.
- Nutritious: Every serving is packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Budget-friendly: Uses accessible pantry staples and fresh produce.
- One-pot convenience: Minimal cleanup thanks to straightforward instructions.
Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 min | 15 min | 20 min | 4 | 489 per serving |
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large deep skillet or saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or stirring spoon
- Colander (for rinsing beans)
Ingredients
For four generous servings, gather the following:
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tsp. vegetable bouillon base (Better Than Bouillon or similar)
- 12 oz. orecchiette pasta
- 2 tsp. fresh thyme leaves
- 1 can (14 oz) small white beans, rinsed
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- Pepper, freshly cracked to taste
Ingredient Notes
- Orecchiette: Traditional “little ear” pasta; shells, rotini, or other small pasta shapes also work if substituted.
- White beans: Use cannellini, navy, or Great Northern beans for creaminess and subtle flavor.
- Spinach: Baby spinach wilts quickly and blends smoothly into the sauce. Substitute with baby kale or chard for variation.
- Bouillon base: Adds savory depth with no need for boxed broth.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best for melt and flavor.
- Thyme: Brightens the dish with earthy herbal notes.
Directions
- Sauté garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Add garlic, cooking until it turns light golden brown (2 minutes).
- Add broth: Remove skillet from heat, pour in 4 cups water, and whisk in bouillon base until dissolved.
- Simmer pasta: Stir in orecchiette and fresh thyme. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat. Simmer, stirring often, until pasta is al dente (10–12 minutes).
- Finish with beans and greens: Fold in rinsed white beans, spinach, Parmesan, and cracked pepper. Continue cooking until beans are warmed and spinach wilted (2 minutes).
- Serve: Dish out immediately, providing extra Parmesan at the table if desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carb | Fiber | Fat | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 489 | 20g | 85g | 7g | 10g | 2.5g | 9mg | 767mg |
What Makes Orecchiette, Beans, and Spinach a Smart Choice?
- Fiber-rich: Beans and whole grains promote digestive health.
- Plant protein: White beans and cheese create a meatless but satisfying meal.
- Vitamins and minerals: Spinach provides vitamin K, A, and folate, while beans add iron and magnesium.
- Budget conscious: Recipe uses ingredients often found in pantries, reducing food waste and saving money.
- Versatile: Swap pasta types, try different greens, or add veggies like tomatoes or onions.
What others are reading
Tips, Variations & Customizations
- Double up the spinach: If you want extra greens, use up to 4 cups instead of 2.
- Switch your beans: Great Northern, navy beans, or butter beans all work well for this creamy dish.
- Change the pasta: Shells or rotini can work if orecchiette is unavailable.
- Add vegetables: Sliced tomatoes, onions or bell peppers for more flavor and nutrition.
- Spice it up: Sprinkle red pepper flakes during the garlic sauté stage for gentle heat.
- Make it vegan: Omit Parmesan or sub with nutritional yeast.
- Bulk up the broth: For a soupier finish, add an extra cup of water and more bouillon.
What To Serve With Orecchiette With White Beans & Spinach?
- Crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up the savory broth.
- Simple side salad: Try mixed greens dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
- Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
- Fresh fruit: Like orange segments or grapes for a light, sweet finish.
Recipes To Pair or Try Next
- Kaiserschmarrn With Roasted Mixed Berries
- Blueberry Corn Salad
- Raspberry, Pineapple, and Feta Salad
- Blackberry-Balsamic Glazed Pork Skewers
- Green Summer Minestrone
- Soba With Chicken and Baby Greens
- Salmon, Avocado, and Citrus Salad
- Jammy Tomato and Tofu Burrito Bowls
- Protein-Packed Lentil Salad With Chicken and Fresh Veg
- Frijoles-Stuffed Peppers
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely. Substitute with gluten-free orecchiette or small gluten-free pasta shells for a similar texture and flavor.
Q: What are the best white beans for this dish?
A: Cannellini, navy, or Great Northern beans all work well and offer a creamy texture.
Q: How long will leftovers keep?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Q: Can I add protein?
A: Yes, cooked diced chicken, turkey sausage, or shrimp can be added after the pasta finishes cooking for a heartier meal.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh spinach?
A: Frozen spinach (thawed and pressed dry) or chopped kale can be substituted. Adjust cooking time as needed so greens are tender.
Q: Is this recipe vegetarian?
A: This recipe is vegetarian as written, provided your bouillon is meat-free.
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
- Sauté garlic but don’t burn: Less than two minutes over moderate heat is all it takes for best flavor.
- Water-to-bouillon ratio: For a lighter soup, simply increase water; for richer broth, use a bit less.
- Stir pasta often: Orecchiette tends to stick—keep it moving for uniform cooking.
- Taste as you go: Adjust thyme, Parmesan, or pepper at the end for perfect seasoning.
Health Benefits of Orecchiette With White Beans and Spinach
- High in plant protein: Beans boost satiety and muscle maintenance for vegetarians.
- Excellent fiber: Great for digestion and blood sugar balance.
- Rich in micronutrients: Spinach adds vitamin K, A, and folate.
- Lower in saturated fat: Parmesan contributes flavor with moderate saturated fat.
- No added sugar: Satisfies without hidden sugars—just 2.5g per serving (none added).
About Orecchiette: The Pasta That Holds Flavor
Orecchiette, translating to “little ears” in Italian, is uniquely shaped to cradle sauces, beans, and vegetables.
Traditionally from Italy’s Puglia region,orecchiette pairs perfectly with simple, rustic ingredients. Their design makes them ideal for one-pot recipes where broth and cheese cling to every bite.
Simple Storage and Make-Ahead Advice
- Store leftovers in a sealed container up to 3 days.
- Reheat on medium, adding a tablespoon of water or broth if needed.
- Avoid freezing: The texture of beans and pasta changes when thawed.
Other Quick, Nourishing Vegetarian Recipes
- Eggplant Meatballs: Hearty and packed with flavor
- Penne al Pomodoro: Classic tomato and pasta simplicity
- Olive Oil Alfredo Sauce: Creamy, but lightened up
- Spaghetti Arrabbiata: Spicy comfort food classic
Summary: Why This Recipe Is a Modern Comfort Classic
In a busy world, orecchiette with white beans and spinach stands out as a dish that is fuss-free but brimming with goodness. With wholesome ingredients, quick one-pot prep, and a balanced flavor profile, it’s ideal for busy nights or moments when comfort and nutrition are equally important. Feel free to personalize with fresh veggies, swap greens, or toss in a protein for an even more complete meal. The pasta’s gentle curves hold onto broth and cheese, delivering flavor in every mouthful.
Enjoy this modern comfort food on repeat—and don’t forget an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for the finishing touch.
References
- https://www.livenourishedtoday.com/recipes/vegetarian-recipes/orecchiette-with-white-beans-and-spinach
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/recipes/a37359573/orecchiette-white-beans-spinach-recipe/
- https://theliveinkitchen.com/orecchiette-with-spinach-and-butter-beans/
- https://www.aboutamom.com/easy-orecchiette-pasta-recipe/
- https://www.womansday.com/food-recipes/food-drinks/recipes/a54439/orecchiette-with-white-beans-and-spinach-recipe/
- https://alittlemethyme.com/orecchiette-with-bacon-spinach-and-creamy-white-bean-sauce/
- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/food-recipes/a34463100/orecchiette-with-white-beans-and-spinach-recipe/
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