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Easy High-Protein White Bean and Spinach Skillet Dinner

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A quick, healthy, and high-protein skillet dinner combining creamy white beans and fresh spinach with simple pantry staples. Perfect for busy weeknights and adaptable to various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) white beans, drained and rinsed (cannellini or great northern beans preferred)
  • 4 cups (120 g) fresh baby spinach, loosely packed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (yellow or white)
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water or vegetable broth
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Drain and rinse the white beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and can taste. Rinse the fresh spinach and roughly chop if the leaves are large. Mince the garlic cloves and finely chop the onion.
  2. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to a large non-stick skillet and warm over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the rinsed white beans along with 1/4 cup (60 ml) of water or vegetable broth. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to warm through.
  5. Using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, gently press some of the beans against the skillet to create a creamy base, leaving some whole for texture.
  6. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (if using), a pinch of red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
  7. Toss in the fresh spinach handful by handful, stirring until it wilts down, about 2-3 minutes. Add a splash of water if the skillet looks dry.
  8. Remove the skillet from heat and squeeze 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice over the top. Give everything a final stir to brighten the flavors.
  9. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with freshly chopped herbs.

Notes

Rinse canned beans well to reduce sodium and improve flavor absorption. Avoid overcooking spinach to keep it vibrant and tender. Gently mash some beans for creaminess but leave some whole for texture. Adjust seasoning gradually and taste as you go. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days refrigerated; reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: white beans, spinach, high-protein, quick dinner, healthy skillet, easy recipe, vegetarian, gluten-free

Find it online: https://lyrafeast.com/easy-high-protein-white-bean-and-spinach-skillet-dinner-recipe-for-quick-healthy-meals/