Creamy Lemon White Bean Pasta

Name: Creamy Lemon White Bean Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti or penne recommended); 1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1/2 cup vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love this Creamy Lemon White Bean Pasta recipe because it’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that comes together in no time! The creamy and zesty lemon sauce perfectly coats the tender pasta and hearty white beans, making it satisfying yet refreshing. It’s a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or even a sophisticated meal. I can't wait for you to experience the vibrant flavors and creamy goodness of this dish!

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:28:13.295Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining creamy white beans with zesty lemon, I was skeptical but intrigued. After a few trials, I found that the creaminess of the beans made the perfect base for a sauce that holds the bright, fresh lemon flavor. The addition of garlic and spinach elevates the dish even further!

This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during busy weeknights. I love how easily it adapts; you can add vegetables or proteins as you like. It’s both filling and light, striking a wonderful balance!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy white beans provide a rich and satisfying texture
Bright lemon flavor adds a refreshing twist
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights

      

The Role of White Beans

White beans, such as cannellini or Great Northern, are not just a source of protein; they provide a creamy texture that takes this pasta dish to the next level. Their natural creaminess complements the lemon sauce, making your dish feel indulgent without the need for heavy cream. If you're short on time or don't have white beans, you could substitute them with chickpeas for a different texture that's still satisfying.

When using canned white beans, it's essential to rinse them well to remove excess sodium and any canning liquid that might affect the flavor. This simple step enhances the overall taste while helping to maintain the creamy consistency when combined with the pasta and lemon sauce. Don’t forget to reserve the canning liquid; it can be used as a substitute for vegetable broth if you want to amp up the flavor even further.

Techniques for Perfect Pasta

Cooking pasta might seem straightforward, but certain techniques can elevate your dish. Always boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water; this is crucial for flavor. Make sure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the pasta, and stir it occasionally to prevent sticking. Cooking until al dente, as indicated on the package, ensures the pasta remains firm and holds up well against the creamy sauce.

One of my favorite tips is to reserve that half cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be a game changer for achieving the perfect consistency when mixing with the sauce. If your sauce seems too thick after combining it with the pasta, gradually add this water to loosen it up without diluting the flavors, creating a beautifully creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

This Creamy Lemon White Bean Pasta can be enjoyed as is, but don't hesitate to jazz it up with additional ingredients. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can offer a nice kick, or you might consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Pair it with a light side salad or garlic bread for a more complete meal that complements the zesty flavors of the pasta.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it taste even better the next day! When reheating, do so on a low heat to prevent the pasta from becoming gummy. You might want to add a splash of vegetable broth or reserved pasta water to restore the creaminess lost during storage.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful meal!

Ingredients

8 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti or penne recommended)
1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1/2 cup vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Make sure everything is prepped and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal!

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Sauté Garlic and Spinach

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.

Combine Ingredients

Add the drained white beans to the skillet along with the lemon juice, zest, and vegetable broth. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Mix with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the mixture is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach desired creaminess. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your creamy lemon white bean pasta!

All done! It’s time to dig in!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauté along with the garlic. This dish is versatile, so feel free to incorporate other vegetables or proteins you have on hand.

Ingredient Swaps

While this recipe calls for spinach to add nutrition and color, feel free to swap it out for kale or arugula, depending on what you have on hand. Both provide a unique texture; kale adds a hearty bite, while arugula brings a peppery flavor that can elevate the dish further. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as kale will take a bit longer to wilt.

If you're looking to make it dairy-free, ensure your vegetable broth and any garnishes (like nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor) are free from animal products. For an additional twist, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives, which can complement the lemony goodness with their savory profiles.

Make-Ahead Tips

This pasta dish can be partially prepared in advance, making dinner or meal prep even easier. Prepare the lemon sauce and sautéed spinach beforehand; just store them separately in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, cook the pasta and combine everything as directed. This way, you save time without compromising on flavor or freshness.

If you plan to freeze the dish, I recommend undercooking the pasta slightly before freezing, as it will continue to cook when reheated. Store the pasta and sauce in separate containers to prevent the pasta from soaking up too much sauce, which can lead to a mushy texture. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the recipe.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti and penne are both great options, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses olive oil and doesn’t contain any animal products.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.