Greens and Beans Recipe

Try this nutrient-packed Greens and Beans Recipe—a quick, flavorful dish featuring hearty kale, spinach, and protein-rich cannellini beans, cooked in a savory broth with bacon and Parmesan. Perfect as a side dish or light main course, this easy 30-minute recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. Customize with your favorite greens and enjoy this wholesome, comforting meal with crusty bread or rice. Make it vegetarian-friendly or spice it up with red pepper flakes for an extra kick!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 5 strips bacon (drippings reserved, see notes)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (see notes)
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cans cannellini beans (15.5 oz. each, drained, see notes)
• 4 packed cups kale, roughly chopped
• 3 packed cups spinach
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Seasonings:

• 3/4 teaspoon each: parsley, basil, oregano, onion powder, mustard powder
• 1/4 teaspoon each: seasoned salt, pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes

For Serving:

• Freshly cracked pepper

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Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon:

• Heat a large skillet over low heat and cook the bacon until crispy. While the bacon cooks, measure out the remaining ingredients.
• Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the bacon drippings (or substitute with butter if needed). Chop the cooled bacon and set aside.

1. Deglaze the Skillet:

• Add the wine to the skillet over medium heat. Use a silicone spatula to scrape and loosen the bacon bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer until the wine reduces by half, about 4 minutes.

1. Cook Onions and Garlic:

• Add the reserved bacon drippings and diced onions to the skillet. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the seasonings and chicken broth.

1. Simmer the Beans:

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add the drained cannellini beans and simmer for 5-6 minutes. For a thicker sauce, mash some of the beans into the broth using the back of a spoon.

1. Cook the Greens:

• Add the kale to the skillet and cover. Cook until it begins to wilt, about 3 minutes.
• Add the spinach, cover, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted.

1. Finish and Serve:

• Reduce the heat to low. Squeeze the juice from 2 lemon wedges over the dish.
• Top with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped bacon. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly cracked pepper.
• Serve with the remaining lemon wedges on the side.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutrient-Packed: A delicious way to enjoy hearty greens and protein-rich beans.
• Full of Flavor: Bacon drippings, white wine, and Parmesan cheese add depth to this comforting dish.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, light main course, or served over crusty bread.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it great for busy weeknights.

Tips

• Choose Fresh Greens: Use fresh, vibrant kale and spinach for the best flavor and texture.
• Deglazing the Pan: Don’t skip this step; it adds flavor by incorporating the browned bits from the bacon.
• Thicker Sauce: Mash a portion of the beans to create a thicker, creamier base.

Variations and Substitutions

• Greens: Substitute kale and spinach with Swiss chard, collard greens, or arugula.
• Beans: Swap cannellini beans with great northern beans, navy beans, or chickpeas.
• Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use olive oil or butter. Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
• Wine-Free: Replace the wine with additional chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

• Yes! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

What can I use instead of bacon drippings?

• Butter, olive oil, or even ghee are great substitutes.

How can I add more protein?

• Stir in cooked sausage, shredded chicken, or even a poached egg on top.

Serving

• Serve with crusty bread, toasted baguette slices, or over rice for a heartier meal.
• Pair with a glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, for a perfect match.

Suggestions

• Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Add a handful of sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for more flavor.
• Double the recipe to serve at gatherings or meal prep for the week!