Ingredients:
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 cans of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 can of diced tomatoes
4 cups of chicken stock
1 cup of short pasta such as elbow or macaroni
2 tbsp. of olive oil
1 tsp. of salt
½ tsp. of black pepper
½ tsp. of dried oregano
¼ tsp. of red pepper flakes
2 tbsp. of freshly chopped parsley
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they are soft and fragrant.
2. Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté for a further 30 seconds.
3. Add diced tomatoes, chicken stock, salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir together and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and add the cannellini beans. Allow the mixture to simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Add the short pasta to the pot and stir everything together. Cook for another 10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
6. Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes. This will allow the beans and pasta to absorb the flavors of the broth.
7. Finally, add freshly chopped parsley to the pot and give it a good stir.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations:
1. Vegetarian version – The dish can easily be converted to a vegetarian recipe by using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
2. Addition of meat – You can add meat to the dish for a more substantial meal. Cooked sausage or ground beef can be added along with the onions and garlic.
3. Pasta shape – The recipe calls for short pasta such as elbow or macaroni, but you can use any type of pasta you want. The recipe will work equally well with fusilli, penne, or spaghetti.
Conclusion:
Pasta and beans is a simple, yet delicious dish that is perfect for a comforting dinner at home. The recipe we have provided is easy to follow, and can be adjusted to suit your preferences. Whether you want to make it vegetarian by using vegetable stock, or add meat for a heartier meal, this recipe is the perfect base for making a delicious pasta and beans dish.