Cacio e Pepe White Beans

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp butter (used for cooking the garlic and pepper)
• 2 clove garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp black pepper (freshly cracked; adjust to taste)
• 15 oz white beans (1 can (such as Cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed)
• 0.5 cup vegetable broth
• 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• 0.5 lemon juice (squeezed from half a lemon)
• salt (to taste)
• crushed red pepper (optional garnish for heat)

Steps

1. 1

   In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.

2. 2

   Add the minced garlic and freshly cracked black pepper to the butter. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the pepper is toasted.

3. 3

   Add the drained white beans and the vegetable broth to the skillet.

4. 4

   Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.

5. 5

   Using a fork or a potato masher, partially mash some of the beans directly in the pan. This will release their starches and create a creamy sauce with the broth and cheese.

6. 6

   Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for a few minutes until the sauce has thickened to your liking.

7. 7

   Finish the dish by stirring in fresh lemon juice and seasoning with salt to taste.

8. 8

   Serve warm, optionally topped with more Parmesan or a pinch of crushed red pepper.

Notes

For the best flavor, use freshly cracked black pepper rather than pre-ground. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Nutrition per serving

• vegetarian
• high-protein
• main dish
• cacio e pepe
• white beans
• one-pan
• quick dinner
• healthy