Imagine transporting yourself to the rolling hills of Tuscany with just one skillet and a handful of simple ingredients. This Tuscan White Bean Skillet Bake is not just a recipe—it's a culinary journey that promises to tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul. With its rich, comforting flavors and incredibly easy preparation, this dish is perfect for busy home cooks who crave authentic Italian-inspired cuisine without spending hours in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Tuscan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 cans of white beans (drained and rinsed), 1 can of diced tomatoes, 2 cups of fresh spinach, 1 onion (diced), 3 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and continue to sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Stir in the drained and rinsed white beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and Italian seasoning. Mix everything well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- After simmering, add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring it into the mixture until it wilts down, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Once the spinach has wilted, reduce the heat to low and let the dish cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Check the seasoning once more and adjust if necessary. If desired, you can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This dish can be enjoyed warm, either on its own or with crusty bread for dipping.
- Serve the Tuscan White Bean Skillet Bake hot, garnished with additional herbs or cheese if desired. Enjoy your hearty and nutritious meal!
Tips
- Use high-quality canned white beans and drain them thoroughly to prevent a watery dish.
- Fresh spinach is key—add it at the last moment to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
- Don't rush the sautéing of onions and garlic; this builds a flavor foundation for the entire dish.
- For extra richness, consider adding a splash of white wine while simmering the beans.
- If you want a protein boost, crumble some crispy pancetta or bacon on top before serving.
- Serve with a crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Experiment with different herbs like fresh basil or thyme for varied flavor profiles.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
