Spring Greens with Beans

Spring Greens with Beans Recipe - Vegetarian Dish from China

Region / culture: China | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Spring Greens with Beans is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the freshness of spring greens with the heartiness of beans. This recipe is perfect for a light and healthy meal that is packed with flavor.

History

This recipe has its roots in traditional Mediterranean cuisine, where beans and greens are commonly paired together to create a satisfying and nutritious dish. The combination of beans and greens provides a good balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a popular choice for those looking for a healthy and delicious meal.

Ingredients

1.5 tbsp olive oil
3 to 4 cloves of garlic, minced
3 scallions, sliced, or a good-sized bunch of garlic chives, minced
2 cans (16 oz or 454 g) of beans (pink, black or navy), drained and rinsed
1 tsp chili powder
12 to 16 oz (454 g) of spring greens with small leaves (such as arugula, watercress, baby spinach), stemmed
salt and freshly ground black pepper

How to prepare

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook over low heat, stirring, for 30 seconds. Add scallions and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Stir in beans, chili powder, and 0.25 cup of water. Bring to a simmer, then mash just enough beans with the back of a wooden spoon to create a thick, saucy base. Cover and cook over low heat while preparing greens.
In a large pot, steam greens with only the water clinging until wilted, for 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from heat and add to beans; stir well. Season with salt and pepper and serve.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
Top with crumbled feta cheese or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added richness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the beans thoroughly before using them in the recipe to remove any excess salt or preservatives.

- You can use any type of beans in this recipe, such as pink, black, or navy beans, depending on your preference.

- Feel free to customize the dish by adding your favorite herbs or spices to enhance the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Spring Greens with Beans as a main dish with a side of crusty bread or over cooked grains like quinoa or brown rice.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to steam the greens just until wilted to preserve their vibrant color and nutrients.

- Mash some of the beans to create a thick, saucy base for the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of leafy greens in place of the spring spinach, such as kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens.

- Substitute the olive oil with avocado oil or coconut oil for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the Spring Greens with Beans alongside a crisp white wine or a light and refreshing salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 30g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 5g per serving

Saturated Fat: 1g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 10g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and vegan-friendly.

Summary

Spring Greens with Beans is a nutritious and balanced dish that provides a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Spring Greens with Beans is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Spring Greens with Beans. It was a warm spring day, and I was wandering through the bustling farmer's market in search of fresh ingredients for a new dish to try out. As I perused the colorful stalls filled with vibrant fruits and vegetables, my eyes landed on a beautiful display of leafy greens and plump beans.

The vendor, a kind older woman with a twinkle in her eye, noticed my interest and beckoned me over. She told me that the recipe for Spring Greens with Beans had been passed down through generations in her family, and she was happy to share it with me. I couldn't believe my luck!

She handed me a faded, stained piece of paper with the handwritten recipe scrawled across it. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could almost smell the fragrant herbs and spices that would come together to create a symphony of flavors in this dish.

I thanked the vendor profusely and headed home with a spring in my step, eager to recreate the recipe in my own kitchen. As I gathered the ingredients and began to cook, I felt a sense of connection to the generations of women who had lovingly prepared this dish before me.

The scent of garlic and onions sizzling in the pan filled my kitchen, mingling with the earthy aroma of the fresh greens and beans. I added a splash of vegetable broth and a sprinkle of herbs, letting the flavors meld together into a delicious, wholesome dish.

When I finally sat down to taste my creation, I was blown away by the explosion of flavors on my tongue. The tender greens and creamy beans complemented each other perfectly, while the herbs added a subtle depth of flavor that I had never experienced before.

I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen, a dish that I would make time and time again to share with my loved ones. It was a dish that brought people together, nourishing not only their bodies but their hearts and souls as well.

Over the years, I have made Spring Greens with Beans for countless gatherings and celebrations, each time receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I have shared it with friends, family, and even strangers who have become fast friends after tasting this dish.

As I look back on that fateful day at the farmer's market, I am grateful for the serendipitous encounter that led me to discover this wonderful recipe. It has brought so much joy and connection into my life, and I will always cherish the memories of cooking and sharing it with those I love.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a delicious and comforting dish to serve at your next gathering, look no further than my recipe for Spring Greens with Beans. I promise you won't be disappointed!