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Best Easy Dinner Recipes On A Budget

Best Easy Dinner Recipes On A Budget

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Ingredients

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  • 1 lb Spaghetti or Penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) Cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups Fresh spinach or kale
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup Reserved pasta water

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preparation
    Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. While the water heats up, mince your garlic cloves and rinse the canned beans thoroughly in a colander. Chop your spinach or kale into bite-sized pieces if they are large. Having everything ready to go will make the cooking process smooth and stress-free.
  2. Step 2: Cooking
    Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Add the drained beans to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, lightly mashing a few with a fork to create a creamy texture. Just before the pasta is done, scoop out half a cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside.
  3. Step 3: Plating
    Drain the pasta and add it directly into the skillet with the beans and garlic. Toss in the fresh spinach and pour in the reserved pasta water. Stir everything together over low heat until the spinach wilts and the water creates a light sauce that coats the noodles. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Serve immediately in warm bowls with an extra dusting of cheese if desired.