Tuscan White Bean Skillet (Printable Version)

Wholesome skillet with white beans, pasta, spinach, and melted cheese infused with Italian herbs.

# Ingredients Required:

→ Oils and Seasonings

01 - 30 ml avocado oil or neutral cooking oil, or vegetable broth for oil-free option
02 - 8 large garlic cloves, minced
03 - 1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning blend
04 - 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
05 - Fine sea salt, to taste
06 - Black pepper, to taste

→ Base and Liquids

07 - 1 can (796 g) crushed tomatoes, regular or fire roasted
08 - 480 ml water

→ Pasta

09 - 225 g small dry pasta such as orecchiette or shells (gluten-free or regular)

→ Legumes and Greens

10 - 2 cans (850 g total) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained well, or 820 g cooked white beans
11 - 140 g fresh baby spinach

→ Cheese and Garnish

12 - 140 to 200 g shredded vegan mozzarella cheese
13 - Vegan parmesan cheese, homemade or store-bought (optional)
14 - Fresh basil leaves (optional)

# Guide to Cooking:

01 - Preheat oven to 230°C and position a rack in the center. Heat a large 30 cm ovenproof skillet over medium heat.
02 - Add avocado oil and minced garlic to skillet. Stir frequently and cook until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes. Incorporate Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for one more minute.
03 - Pour crushed tomatoes into the skillet and stir thoroughly. Add 480 ml water and 1.5 teaspoons fine sea salt, then bring to a gentle simmer.
04 - Add pasta to the pan and return to a simmer. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for approximately 10 minutes until pasta is nearly al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
05 - Mix in fresh spinach and 70 to 140 g shredded vegan mozzarella cheese, depending on preferred cheesiness. Cook until spinach is wilted, about 1 to 2 minutes.
06 - Stir in rinsed beans. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired. Evenly sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
07 - Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
08 - Allow to rest a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and vegan parmesan if desired. Serve alongside sturdy toasted bread.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Using vegetable broth in place of oil reduces fat content while maintaining flavor.
02 - Orecchiette or small shells work best to hold sauce and beans.

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