Love pasta but looking to switch up your usual marinara or alfredo sauces? Why not treat yourself to a delicious twist with this Red Bean Pasta Sauce recipe? This hearty and flavorful sauce combines the rich, creamy texture of red beans with aromatic herbs and spices, creating a satisfying dish that’s perfect for cozy nights in or entertaining guests. Let’s dive into making this scrumptious sauce together!
**Red Bean Pasta Sauce**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 can (15 oz) red beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Add the drained and rinsed red beans to the skillet, stirring well to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Using a potato masher or fork, gently mash some of the red beans to help thicken the sauce while still leaving some beans whole for texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cook your favorite pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the red bean sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta in the flavorful sauce.
8. Serve the Red Bean Pasta Sauce hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this comforting and nutritious twist on traditional pasta sauces!
This Red Bean Pasta Sauce is a delightful departure from your usual pasta dishes, offering a unique blend of flavors and a satisfying, creamy texture. It’s a wonderful option for those looking to incorporate more plant-based proteins into their diet while still indulging in a comforting meal. The combination of red beans, aromatic herbs, and zesty tomatoes creates a harmony of flavors that will have you coming back for more.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner at home or simply craving a hearty pasta dish, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you feeling nourished. Try it out for your next pasta night and elevate your culinary experience with this delicious and wholesome Red Bean Pasta Sauce!
