There’s something so comforting about a plate of pasta—especially when it’s made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. That’s exactly what we’ve created with our Cranberry Beans Pasta. This dish is a perfect blend of hearty beans, al dente pasta, and the vibrant flavors of the season. It’s not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients, making it the perfect meal for those cozy nights when you want something wholesome yet delicious.
Why Cranberry Beans?
Cranberry beans might not be the first bean that comes to mind when you think of pasta, but trust us, they are a game-changer. With their creamy texture and slightly sweet, nutty flavor, cranberry beans are the perfect complement to pasta. They add a rich, hearty element to the dish while still feeling light and fresh. Plus, they’re a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients—making them a perfect choice for a filling and nutritious meal.
🍃 Seasonal Goodness
Cranberry beans are often harvested in the fall, so they’re a wonderful addition to autumn dishes. Their rich, earthy flavor makes them a great choice when the weather starts to turn cooler, bringing that comforting, hearty vibe to your meal.
Simple Yet Flavorful Ingredients
What we love about this recipe is how simple yet flavorful it is. The star of the dish is, of course, the cranberry beans, but we also add garlic, onions, and fresh herbs to elevate the flavors. A splash of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon bring everything together, adding richness and brightness to the dish. It’s the kind of meal that feels like it came together effortlessly, but is packed with depth of flavor.
🌿 Herb Magic
Fresh herbs—like basil or thyme—bring a burst of freshness that balances out the richness of the beans and pasta. Don’t skimp on them!
A Cozy, Comforting Pasta Dish
We first put together this recipe during the fall, when we were craving a pasta dish that felt hearty but wasn’t too heavy. Cranberry beans are the perfect answer! The combination of tender beans and perfectly cooked pasta creates a dish that’s filling but doesn’t weigh you down. It’s like a warm, comforting hug in a bowl.
🍝 Perfect Pasta Texture
Be sure to cook your pasta al dente for the best texture. It helps to balance out the creamy beans, giving you that satisfying bite in every forkful.
A One-Pot Wonder
Another thing we love about this recipe is that it’s a one-pot wonder. You can cook the pasta and cranberry beans together, making cleanup a breeze. There’s no need for complicated steps—just toss everything into the pot, let the flavors meld together, and you’re ready to eat!
🌟 Easy Cleanup!
Since this dish is made in one pot, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Less mess means more time to enjoy your meal!
Ideal for Weeknight Dinners or Weekend Feasts
This Cranberry Beans Pasta is incredibly versatile. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for a weekend gathering with friends or family. You can even make extra for leftovers, as the flavors only get better the next day! The best part is that you can enjoy it hot or at room temperature, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks.
🍽️ Meal Prep Tip
This dish keeps well in the fridge for a few days, making it great for meal prep. Just reheat it gently, and you’re all set for an easy, flavorful lunch or dinner!
A Hearty Meal With a Fresh Twist
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The cranberry beans add heartiness, while the fresh herbs and lemon juice add a twist of brightness that keeps the dish light and vibrant. It’s one of those meals that tastes like it was made with love, and every bite reminds us that simple ingredients often create the best flavors.
💚 Feel-Good Cooking
This recipe is all about enjoying fresh, seasonal produce while nourishing your body. It’s healthy, hearty, and so satisfying!
Ready to Dig In?
We hope you’re as excited as we are to try this Cranberry Beans Pasta. With its deliciously creamy beans, perfectly cooked pasta, and fresh seasonal flavors, it’s a meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a simple dish to share with friends, this pasta is just the ticket. Enjoy!
Ingredients
- 300 g pasta short pasta like penne or fusilli works best
- 1 cup fresh cranberry beans shelled (or 1 can of cooked cranberry beans)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small onion chopped
- 150 g spinach or kale or a mix of both
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or fresh thyme sprigs
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Vegan parmesan optional, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the fresh cranberry beans (or canned beans, drained and rinsed), thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add the Greens: Add the spinach or kale to the pan and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the beans and greens. Toss everything together, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water to help bring everything together.
- Stir in the lemon zest for added brightness.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Optionally, top with vegan parmesan for a savory touch.
Notes
- If fresh cranberry beans aren’t available, you can use frozen or canned cranberry beans instead.
- For extra flavor, you can drizzle some balsamic glaze on top or add a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for 2-3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Cranberry Beans Pasta
🍝 What Are Cranberry Beans?
Cranberry beans are a type of heirloom bean with a creamy texture and a slightly nutty, sweet flavor. They hold up well in pasta dishes, making them a perfect addition to this hearty meal.
🍅 Can I Use Canned Cranberry Beans?
Yes! If you’re short on time, canned cranberry beans can be used in place of dried beans. Just be sure to drain and rinse them well before adding to the pasta.
🌱 Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
This dish is already vegan, but feel free to add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms for more flavor and texture. You can also sprinkle some nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy taste.
🍜 What Type of Pasta Works Best?
Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or farfalle works best with this dish, as the beans and sauce cling to the pasta. However, any pasta you have on hand will work!
🌿 Can I Add More Herbs or Spices?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme can be added to enhance the flavor. For a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes works beautifully.
🍽️ Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the pasta and beans in advance. Store them separately and reheat when ready to serve, adding a little extra olive oil or pasta water to refresh the sauce.
Enjoy your Cranberry Beans Pasta—a simple, wholesome, and flavorful dish! 🍝🌱
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