Pasta with Red Bean and Green Onion Sauce

If you’re looking for a pasta dish that’s both hearty and full of flavor, this pasta with red bean and green onion sauce is a fantastic option. Red beans create a rich and creamy sauce, while the fresh green onions add a burst of brightness that complements the earthiness of the beans. This recipe is simple to prepare, yet it offers a deliciously satisfying meal with a unique combination of textures and tastes. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients:

For this flavorful pasta with red bean and green onion sauce, you’ll need:

• 300g pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite type)
• 1 can (400g) red beans (drained and rinsed)
• 3 green onions (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 cup vegetable broth or pasta water (reserved)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook until al dente. Drain the pasta, but make sure to reserve about a cup of the pasta water to use in the sauce later if needed. Set the cooked pasta aside.

2. Prepare the Red Bean Sauce:

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the red bean sauce. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Next, add the drained and rinsed red beans to the skillet. Stir in the ground cumin and smoked paprika, if using, to enhance the flavors of the beans. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to warm the beans and allow the spices to meld.

3. Blend the Sauce:

Transfer the sautéed beans to a blender or food processor. Add about half a cup of vegetable broth or reserved pasta water to help blend the beans into a smooth, creamy sauce. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more broth or water as needed to reach your desired consistency.

Once blended, return the sauce to the skillet and heat over low heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should be thick and creamy, but not too dry. If it’s too thick, you can add a bit more liquid to loosen it up.

4. Toss the Pasta in the Sauce:

Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat each piece in the red bean sauce. Stir in the chopped green onions, saving a few for garnish. The green onions add a fresh, vibrant flavor that complements the creamy bean sauce beautifully.

5. Serve and Garnish:

To serve, divide the pasta between plates and garnish with additional chopped green onions. For a fresh and colorful touch, you can also sprinkle some fresh parsley or cilantro over the top. A final twist of black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil adds the perfect finishing touch.

Serving Suggestions:

This pasta with red bean and green onion sauce is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various sides:

• As a main dish: Serve the pasta as a satisfying main course, perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

• With a side salad: Pair the pasta with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to add lightness and variety to the meal.

• With crusty bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce for a complete and comforting meal.

Variations:

This recipe is flexible and can be customized based on your preferences or what you have available:

• Add vegetables: For extra texture and nutrition, you can add sautéed spinach, roasted bell peppers, or zucchini to the dish. Simply stir the vegetables into the sauce before tossing with the pasta.

• Herb options: If you don’t have fresh parsley or cilantro, you can swap them for other herbs like basil, dill, or thyme to add a different layer of flavor.

• Spicy kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy variation.

• Protein addition: For a heartier meal, you can add roasted chickpeas or tofu cubes to the pasta. The creamy sauce complements plant-based proteins wonderfully.

Tips for Success:

• Use fresh green onions: Green onions add a light, zesty flavor that lifts the richness of the red bean sauce. Be sure to use fresh green onions for the best flavor and crunch.

• Adjust sauce consistency: The consistency of the sauce should be creamy and smooth, but not too thick. If it becomes too thick, simply add more vegetable broth or pasta water to thin it out.

• Season to taste: Don’t forget to taste the sauce before adding the pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed. A good balance of salt, pepper, and spices is key to enhancing the flavor of the beans.

Conclusion:

Pasta with red bean and green onion sauce is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the creaminess of blended red beans with the fresh, zesty bite of green onions. It’s a comforting, nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion, offering a unique twist on traditional pasta dishes. The simple ingredients come together to create a rich and satisfying sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta, while the green onions add a refreshing contrast.

Enjoy the creamy goodness of this red bean pasta, and feel free to experiment with different variations to make it your own!