Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The “Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet” is the ultimate weeknight dinner that brings together comfort and flavor in the most satisfying way. It combines creamy white beans, vibrant spinach, and chewy sun-dried tomatoes, all cooked together in a skillet to create a rich and savory dish. The perfect balance of flavors and textures will leave you and your family coming back for more. The dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for anyone looking for a flavorful vegetarian meal. Whether you’re trying to impress someone or just want a cozy meal, this skillet will do the trick.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 (14.5 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped

• 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped

• 1/2 cup vegetable broth

• 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for vegan option

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving (optional, omit for vegan)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened and translucent.

2. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for another minute, making sure the garlic doesn’t burn.

3. Incorporate Beans and Sun-dried Tomatoes: Add the rinsed and drained cannellini beans and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the beans to heat through and the flavors to meld.

4. Wilt the Spinach: Add the spinach, a handful at a time, stirring to allow each batch to wilt. Continue until all the spinach is added and cooked down.

5. Add Broth and Cream: Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream (or coconut cream). Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

6. Stir in Parmesan (Optional): Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.

7. Season and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with more Parmesan if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Version: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative like nutritional yeast.

• Different Greens: If you don’t have spinach, you can substitute with other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard, though they may require a bit longer to cook down.

• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add some cooked chicken, sausage, or tofu for extra protein.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. How do I make this dish spicier?

You can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

2. Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes! If you prefer to use dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the skillet.

3. Can I substitute the sun-dried tomatoes with something else?

You can use roasted red peppers or even fresh tomatoes in a pinch, though they won’t offer the same intense sweetness as sun-dried tomatoes.

4. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out the excess water before adding it to the skillet.

5. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

6. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

7. What can I serve this dish with?

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or even pasta. It’s hearty enough on its own but can be a great accompaniment to a light salad as well.

8. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add in mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.

9. How do I make this dish dairy-free?

Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast.

10. Can I freeze this dish?

While the dish can technically be frozen, the texture of the spinach may change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.

Conclusion

The “Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet” is a delicious, hearty, and flavorful dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household. Its rich and creamy texture, combined with the savory flavors of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, creates a meal that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or making it to impress guests, this dish is sure to win hearts. Plus, with plenty of room for substitutions and variations, it’s easy to make this skillet your own!

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