Pasta with Cannellini Beans and Broccoli

Pasta with Cannellini Beans and Broccoli is a tasty and healthy dish that combines the goodness of pasta, beans, and fresh broccoli. This meal is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends and family.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make Pasta with Cannellini Beans and Broccoli. First, it is simple and quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy days. Second, it is healthy, featuring ingredients that offer protein, fiber, and vitamins. Plus, it is delicious and filling, so everyone will love it. This dish is also very versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences.

How to Make Pasta with Cannellini Beans and Broccoli

Ingredients:

1 pound pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 15-ounce can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
1 12-ounce bag broccoli florets
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Directions:

Cook pasta according to package directions.
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Stir in beans, broth, and broccoli. Bring to a simmer and cook until broccoli is tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
Add cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss to combine.
Stir in parsley. Serve immediately.

How to Serve Pasta with Cannellini Beans and Broccoli

Serve Pasta with Cannellini Beans and Broccoli hot. You can put extra grated Parmesan cheese on top if you like. This dish goes well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread on the side.

How to Store Pasta with Cannellini Beans and Broccoli

If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool down and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or heat it on the stove with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

Tips to Make Pasta with Cannellini Beans and Broccoli

Choose your favorite pasta shape to make the dish interesting.
You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for more flavor and color.
If you want a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes while cooking.
For a vegan version, skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Variation

Instead of cannellini beans, you can use white beans or chickpeas. You can also replace broccoli with other greens like spinach or kale. Feel free to experiment based on what you have at home!

FAQs

Can I use whole grain pasta?

Yes, whole grain pasta is a great option for added fiber and nutrition.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Definitely! You can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can cook the pasta and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just combine them right before serving to keep everything fresh.