Dive into the vibrant flavors of Italy with our irresistible "Beans Greens with Vodka Sauce"! This quick and delightful dish is not just a feast for the eyes but also a tantalizing experience for your taste buds. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that combines the creamy richness of cannellini beans, the freshness of mixed greens, and the zesty kick of vodka sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your cooking game? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 can (400g) cannellini beans, drained
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing the mixed greens thoroughly, draining and rinsing the cannellini beans, and finely mincing the garlic cloves.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the minced garlic in the olive oil for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the drained cannellini beans to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
- Pour in the vodka and allow it to simmer and reduce for 2-3 minutes, which will help burn off the alcohol and concentrate the flavor.
- Add the tomato sauce to the skillet, stirring to combine with the beans and vodka. Reduce heat to low-medium and let the sauce simmer for 5-6 minutes.
- Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Add the mixed greens to the skillet and gently fold them into the sauce, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the greens are wilted but still vibrant.
- Remove from heat and transfer to serving plates or a large serving dish.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot, optionally with crusty bread or over pasta.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, wash and chop your mixed greens and mince the garlic in advance. This way, you can focus on cooking when you're ready to eat.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality vodka and tomato sauce to enhance the flavors of your dish. A good tomato sauce can make all the difference!
- Don’t Rush the Garlic: Sauté the garlic until it’s just fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your sauce.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allow the vodka to simmer and reduce properly; this step is crucial for intensifying the flavors and ensuring the alcohol cooks off.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper to suit your preference, and don’t hesitate to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Serve with Style: This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or kale, or even toss in some cooked sausage or chicken for a heartier meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 195kcal
Carbohydrates: 21g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
