Struggling to stick to those healthy New Year's resolutions? We've found the perfect kitchen shortcut that doesn't sacrifice flavour for convenience. This stunning Mediterranean bean dish is about to become your go-to weeknight saviour.
Why This Recipe is an Absolute Game-Changer
Forget slaving over a hot stove for hours. This vibrant, nutrient-packed meal is a true one-pan wonder, ready to serve in less time than it takes to get a takeaway delivered. It’s the ultimate answer to 'I'm tired, but I still want to eat well' dilemma.
Packed with plant-based protein and fibre from humble canned beans, it’s incredibly kind to your wallet. It effortlessly fits into a vegan, vegetarian, or simply flexitarian lifestyle, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser for the whole family.
Your Simple Shopping List
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and store-cupboard staples. You'll need:
- 2 tins of beans: Cannellini and butter beans are ideal for their creamy texture.
- 1 red onion & 2 garlic cloves: For that essential aromatic base.
- Sun-dried tomato paste: The secret weapon for an intense, umami flavour boost.
- Vegetable stock: Creates a simple yet flavourful sauce.
- Baby spinach: Wilts down in minutes for a hit of green goodness.
- Seasoning: Dried oregano, chilli flakes, salt, and pepper.
- To serve: Crusty bread for mopping up every last bit of the delicious sauce.
How to Whip Up Your Mediterranean Masterpiece
- Sizzle your base: Gently fry your sliced onion and garlic in a splash of olive oil until soft and fragrant.
- Build the flavour: Stir in the sun-dried tomato paste and dried oregano, letting it cook for a minute until it smells incredible.
- Simmer: Add your drained beans and pour in the vegetable stock. Let it bubble away for 5-7 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken slightly.
- Wilt the greens: Turn off the heat and stir through the fresh spinach until it just wilts into the warm sauce.
- Finish and serve: Season perfectly with salt, pepper, and a pinch of chilli flakes for a subtle kick. Dish up with a generous chunk of crusty bread.
Chef's Tips for the Perfect Plate
Don't skip the toast! A slice of toasted, rustic bread is non-negotiable for scooping up the rich, tomatoey sauce. For a restaurant-level finish, drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to make the flavours sing.
This recipe is endlessly adaptable. Throw in any leftover vegetables you have lurking in the fridge—chopped peppers, courgette, or mushrooms would all work a treat. It’s a brilliant, no-fuss recipe that proves healthy eating can be utterly delicious and effortlessly simple.
