Spinach and White Beans

This vegan dish of Spinach and White Beans is easy enough for a weeknight meal and delicious enough for a holiday!

Today I’m updating another old favorite that we eat frequently, but is still fancy enough to find a spot on your Thanksgiving table.

I try to eat a lot of spinach because it’s high in iron. As a general non-meat eater, I’ve found it’s really important to keep an eye on my iron intake. Aside from cooking as much as possible in my cast iron skillet (umm, hi chickpeas!), spinach it is!

This recipe for spinach and white beans is one of my go-to veggie side dishes. Its equally as easy as roasted broccoli and surprisingly delicious.

I make this most often to accompany a very plain pasta dish (such as mac and cheese or spaghetti aglio olio) that doesn’t give us any protein or veggies. This side dish does both!

Packed with nutrition, the spinach and beans get loads of flavor from the garlic and hint of nutmeg. The dish comes together in less time than it takes to make a box of mac and cheese, so its perfect for those busy nights.

If you have a big family, I would double or triple this recipe. My husband and I could almost eat this whole batch in one sitting (but we’re kind of pigs).

Even though I make this the same way every time, this recipe can be customized! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for a little spice
• Try using other cooked leafy greens such as bok choy or mustard greens
• This recipe for spinach and white beans is already vegan and gluten-free, so no need for substitutions there!
• Use as a filling for spinach and white bean grilled cheese with lots of creamy fontina
• Add an extra drizzle of olive oil and toss with leftover spaghetti noodles

Even if you think you don’t like spinach, give this a try. I think you’re going to be really surprised!

As always, if you make this recipe be sure to rate it, leave a comment, or tag #theliveinkitchen on Instagram!

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4.75 from 8 votes

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Spinach and White Beans

Prep Time

10 mins

Cook Time

5 mins

Total Time

15 mins

 

Savory white beans and cooked spinach make up this delicious vegan dish.

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: spinach, vegan, white beans

Servings: 4

Calories: 198 kcal

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3-4 garlic cloves, chopped
• 10 ounces boxed frozen chopped spinach
• 14 ounces canned white beans (like cannellini or great northern), rinsed and drained
• Ground nutmeg
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Defrost the spinach in the microwave according to package directions. Place in a kitchen towel and wring it of excess moisture.
2. Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes or until a pale blonde color. Add the beans then the spinach, breaking it up as you add it to the pan. Season with nutmeg, salt and pepper. Serve hot.

Recipe Notes

Adapted from Rachael Ray Express Lane Meals

 

Nutrition Facts

Spinach and White Beans

Amount Per Serving

Calories 198 Calories from Fat 63

% Daily Value*

Total Fat 7g 11%

Saturated Fat 1g 5%

Sodium 57mg 2%

Potassium 704mg 20%

Total Carbohydrates 24g 8%

Dietary Fiber 6g 24%

Protein 9g 18%

Vitamin A 166.2%

Vitamin C 5.6%

Calcium 16.8%

Iron 23.9%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.