Lunch: Cannellini Beans With Spinach

Recipe by /contributors/rita-sodi If there is a lot of liquid in the pan when the spinach is done, drain it before adding the beans.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Lemon, Spinach

Health benefits of Cannellini Beans With Spinach

Lemons can help to prevent oxidative damage to the body, which women with PCOS are often susceptible to. Lemons are also rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. They can potentially support the immune system and have other health benefits. Lemons also have a low glycemic index, so they should not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar when consumed in natural form. Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable that is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, magnesium, and antioxidants. The high iron content in spinach helps combat anemia, which is common in women with PCOS. Magnesium helps reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity. The antioxidants in spinach can help lower oxidative stress, which is beneficial for managing PCOS symptoms. Including spinach in your diet can support overall health and well-being.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups dried cannellini (white kidney) beans, soaked overnight, drained
1 head of garlic, halved crosswise; plus 2 garlic cloves, crushed
3 sage leaves
6 tablespoons olive oil, divided, plus more for serving
Kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 bunches mature spinach, trimmed
1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions

Bring beans, head of garlic, sage, 3 Tbsp. oil, and 6 cups water to a boil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Reduce heat, add several generous pinches of salt and simmer gently until beans are creamy all the way through but skins are still intact, 35 –45 minutes. Let cool.
Heat 3 Tbsp. oil in a large skillet over medium. Cook crushed garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring, just until garlic is golden, about 1 minute. Working in batches, add spinach, letting it wilt slightly before adding more, and cook, tossing often, until leaves are just wilted, about 5 minutes; season with salt.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer beans to skillet with spinach and cook, tossing gently, until beans are warmed through. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and 1/4 cup bean cooking liquid and toss, adding more cooking liquid if needed, until coated (mixture should be saucy but not submerged in liquid; don’t cook too long or beans will get mushy). Taste and season with salt. Serve drizzled with oil.

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