Creamy Spinach Pasta with White Beans: A Delicious and Nutritious Comfort Dish
If you’re looking for a meal that’s both nourishing and indulgent, this Creamy Spinach Pasta with White Beans is the perfect choice. With its velvety sauce made from wholesome ingredients and the satisfying addition of protein-packed white beans, this dish is a hearty vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines the creamy goodness of cheese with the fresh, vibrant flavors of spinach, kale, and basil. The combination of whole-wheat pasta and white beans adds a satisfying texture and an extra boost of nutrition, making it ideal for a balanced meal. With a prep and cook time of just 35 minutes, it’s also a quick and easy option for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:
Greens: 1 (5-ounce) package each of baby kale and baby spinach.
Pasta: 8 ounces of whole-wheat penne or rigatoni.
Cheeses: 2 ounces of cream cheese and ½ cup of shredded Gruyère.
Herbs & Flavor Enhancers: ½ cup of torn fresh basil leaves (plus more for garnish), 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 clove of grated garlic.
Seasonings: ¾ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper.
Protein: 1 (15-ounce) can of low-sodium white beans, rinsed.
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Cook the Greens
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the spinach and kale, cooking for about 3 minutes until tender. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the greens to a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta
Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
3. Prepare the Sauce
In a food processor, combine the cooked greens, cream cheese, Gruyère, basil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Process until the greens are finely chopped and everything is well mixed.
4. Combine and Serve
Add the reserved pasta water to the food processor and blend until the sauce is smooth. Add the white beans and sauce to the cooked pasta, stirring to combine. Top with fresh basil for garnish if desired, and serve immediately.
Nutritional Highlights
Leafy Greens: Spinach and kale are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium.
White Beans: A great source of plant-based protein and fiber, which help keep you full and support digestive health.
Whole-Wheat Pasta: Offers complex carbohydrates and additional fiber compared to refined pasta.
Gruyère & Cream Cheese: Add creaminess and a savory depth of flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy pasta with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad to round out your meal. For a touch of elegance, serve with a glass of white wine or sparkling water infused with lemon and fresh herbs.
This Creamy Spinach Pasta with White Beans is the ultimate comfort food with a healthy twist. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to your preferences—try swapping in other leafy greens, using your favorite pasta shape, or adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing dinner guests, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! Share your experience or any creative tweaks you’ve made to this recipe in the comments below.
