Looking for a quick, wholesome meal that bursts with flavor and is packed with nutrients? Dive into the delightful world of Italian cuisine with our Pasta with White Beans and Tomatoes! This vibrant dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. With the creamy texture of white beans, the freshness of tomatoes, and the aromatic touch of garlic and basil, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or great northern)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, drain and rinse the white beans in a colander under cool running water. Set aside.
- Peel and mince the garlic cloves finely using a sharp knife.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour the canned diced tomatoes into the skillet with the garlic. Stir and let simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Add the drained white beans to the tomato mixture. Gently stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- When pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with tomatoes and beans. Toss gently to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and transfer to serving plates. Garnish with fresh torn basil leaves.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally with a drizzle of extra olive oil on top.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes like penne or fusilli that hold onto the sauce better, enhancing every bite.
- Don’t Skip the Salt: Adding salt to the boiling water is crucial as it enhances the pasta's flavor. Be generous!
- Perfectly Al Dente: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. Aim for al dente texture for the best bite and to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Customize Your Beans: While cannellini and great northern beans are recommended, feel free to experiment with other varieties like chickpeas for a different twist.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh garlic and basil will elevate the dish, adding a depth of flavor that dried versions can’t match.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is a secret weapon for creating a silky sauce. Use it to adjust the consistency as needed.
- Serve Hot: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot. A drizzle of extra olive oil right before serving adds a luxurious touch.
- Garnish Creatively: For an added burst of flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
