Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet

There’s something magical about a simple skillet dish that speaks to the soul. I remember the first time I made this Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet. Picture this: it was a chilly evening, and I was looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. I threw together what I had on hand—and wow, did it impress! The combination of creamy white beans, vibrant spinach, and a hint of tangy lemon is so delightful that I named it after the feeling it gives you. You just might fall in love with it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is like a warm hug on a plate. It’s packed with nutritious ingredients that make you feel great while still being incredibly comforting. White beans are not just delicious; they’re a powerhouse of protein and fiber. Spinach adds color and a wealth of vitamins, making this a guilt-free indulgence. The workout of the garlic and olive oil brings everything to life with bold yet balanced flavors. Plus, let’s not forget about the lusciousness of a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten it up! Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is the perfect answer.

Gather These Ingredients

• 1 can white beans: Opt for cannellini or great northern beans—they’re creamy and soft. If you’re feeling adventurous, go for dried beans. Just make sure to soak and cook them beforehand!

• 2 cups fresh spinach: Nothing beats fresh spinach for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, frozen spinach works too; just make sure to thaw and squeeze out the excess moisture.

• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is non-negotiable! It adds a level of aroma and taste that’s simply unbeatable.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil can elevate your dish with its rich, fruity notes.

• 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste, but don’t skip it. Salt brings all the flavors together, like a great conductor guiding an orchestra.

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly cracked if possible; it adds a little warmth without stealing the show.

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A little kick never hurt anyone! Use it if you like a bit of heat—totally up to you.

• 1 cup vegetable broth: Homemade is superb, but store-bought works just fine. It’s your flavor base!

• Juice of 1 lemon: The zest of the lemon is the shining star! It brightens everything and adds a layer of complexity—don’t skip the lemon!

• Crusty bread or cooked rice: For serving, because every bite of this dish deserves a little mopping up!

The Cooking Process Explained

1. Sauté the garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. You want it fragrant, not browned—keep a watchful eye!

2. Combine the main players: Add the drained and rinsed white beans, vegetable broth, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Bring this glorious mix to a gentle simmer, letting those flavors meld.

3. Spinach magic: It’s time for the spinach! Toss it in and stir until it wilts, which should only take about 2-3 minutes. This step is where the dish transforms into a vibrant green feast.

4. Lemon finale: Squeeze that luscious lemon juice over the top and give everything a good stir to combine. That acidity is going to tell a whole new story!

5. Serve warm: Plate this beauty up with either crusty bread or over a cozy bed of rice, and dig in!

Best Way to Enjoy It

This dish stands beautifully on its own, but serving suggestions can take it to the next level. A slice of warm, crusty bread is like a welcoming hug that scoops up all that glorious bean and spinach goodness. Alternatively, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up those delicious juices. And if you want to impress, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan can bring a nutty richness that complements the dish perfectly!

How to Store and Freeze

Leftovers? Yes, please! Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat; a splash of water or broth can help revive those flavors. Want to freeze it? Portion it out, freeze, and it’ll hold up well for up to three months. Just be sure to defrost overnight in the fridge when you’re ready for another serving.

Pro Chef Tips

For that extra depth of flavor, try toasting your spices in the olive oil before adding garlic. It’s a little culinary alchemy that pays off big time! Also, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for an unexpected twist. And trust me on this—the longer you let the dish sit after cooking, the more the flavors develop. If you can, make it a few hours ahead of time and let it hang out on your counter!

Creative Twists

Feel free to mix in some cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness or add a can of artichoke hearts for an extra kick. If you’re looking for a meaty twist, shredded rotisserie chicken would blend beautifully here! For a vegan touch, swap the vegetable broth with a homemade cashew cream to make it extra decadent. The possibilities are truly endless!

Ingredients List

• 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Crusty bread or cooked rice, for serving

Directions to Follow

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in white beans, vegetable broth, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Squeeze lemon juice over the dish and stir to combine.
6. Serve warm with crusty bread or over rice.

Your Questions Answered

1. How long does it take to cook? About 15-20 minutes, making it a quick weeknight meal.
2. Can I use canned spinach? While fresh is best, you can use canned. Just drain and rinse it well!
3. How can I make it creamy? Stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of cream right before serving.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free? Yep! Just make sure to serve it with gluten-free bread or rice.
5. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! It reheats beautifully, so feel free to prepare it in advance.

Making this dish will not only brighten your plate but also your day. Think of all the wholesome ingredients coming together in one colorful, nourishing skillet. It’s a celebration of simplicity in cooking that you can customize and play with. I can’t wait for you to try it! Share your twists, your thoughts, and your own stories in the comments below! You’re part of a wonderful community, and I can’t wait to hear all about your culinary adventures!

Print Recipe

0 Add to Favorites

Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet

Cooking Method: Sauteing, Simmering Courses: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course Recipe Keys: C Comfort Food Gluten Free Quick Meals Vegan Vegetarian Meals

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 8 mins Cook Time 12 mins Rest Time 2 mins Total Time 22 mins

Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $ 10 Calories: 350

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Creamy white beans, vibrant spinach, and a hint of tangy lemon come together in this quick and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 can white beans (cannellini or great northern) (drained and rinsed)
• 2 cups fresh spinach (fresh or thawed frozen)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked preferred)
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought)
• Juice of 1 lemon (freshly squeezed)
• crusty bread or cooked rice (for serving)

Instructions

1. Sauté the garlic

   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   Don't let the garlic brown.
   Mark as complete

2. Combine the main players

   Add the drained and rinsed white beans, vegetable broth, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle simmer.
   Let the flavors meld.
   Mark as complete

3. Add spinach

   Toss in the spinach and stir until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
   This makes the dish vibrant.
   Mark as complete

4. Lemon finale

   Squeeze the lemon juice over the dish and stir to combine.
   The acidity brightens the dish.
   Mark as complete

5. Serve warm

   Plate the dish with crusty bread or over rice.
   Enjoy it warm.
   Mark as complete

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

---

Amount Per Serving

Calories 350kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 10g16%

Saturated Fat 1g5%

Trans Fat 0g

Cholesterol 0mg

Sodium 800mg34%

Potassium 800mg23%

Total Carbohydrate 55g19%

Dietary Fiber 15g60%

Sugars 5g

Protein 19g38%

---

Vitamin A 200 IU

Vitamin C 30 mg

Calcium 80 mg

Iron 5 mg

Vitamin D 0 IU

Vitamin E 1 IU

Vitamin K 180 mcg

Thiamin 0.5 mg

Riboflavin 0.2 mg

Niacin 2 mg

Vitamin B6 0.3 mg

Folate 250 mcg

Vitamin B12 0 mcg

Biotin 0 mcg

Pantothenic Acid 0.5 mg

Phosphorus 300 mg

Iodine 0 mcg

Magnesium 75 mg

Zinc 1 mg

Selenium 3 mcg

Copper 0.5 mg

Manganese 1 mg

Chromium 0 mcg

Molybdenum 0 mcg

Chloride 0 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: white beans, spinach, skillet, healthy, quick meal