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If you are looking for a cozy, flavorful dish that brings together wholesome ingredients with a touch of comfort food charm, the Cabbage and Beans in Marinara Sauce Recipe is an absolute winner. This recipe marries tender, softened cabbage with creamy cannellini beans, all bathed in a vibrant, garlicky marinara sauce that feels both hearty and fresh. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying vegetarian option, it’s a delightful blend of textures and flavors that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays an important role, bringing color, texture, and heartiness without complicating the preparation. Let’s break down what you’ll need to create this comforting classic.
- Green cabbage (2 cups, roughly chopped): Adds a slightly sweet crunch that softens beautifully when cooked.
- Cannellini beans (1 28-ounce can, rinsed and drained): These creamy beans provide protein and a velvety texture that balances the cabbage perfectly.
- Marinara sauce (2 cups): The rich, tomato-forward sauce brings depth, acidity, and a vibrant color, tying the dish together.
- Grated Romano cheese (optional): Adds a salty, tangy finish that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat, these add a welcome spicy kick.
How to Make Cabbage and Beans in Marinara Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Cabbage
Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil and adding your roughly chopped green cabbage. Let it simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes until the cabbage becomes tender but still holds some texture. Once softened, drain the cabbage thoroughly to avoid watering down the sauce later on.
Step 2: Combine and Simmer
In a large skillet or sauté pan, combine the cooked cabbage with the cannellini beans and 2 cups of your favorite marinara sauce. Cook this mixture over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for about 10 minutes. This step allows all the flavors to blend and intensifies the tomato undertones while warming everything through.
Step 3: Serve and Garnish
Once heated through and perfectly melded, the dish is ready to serve immediately. For an extra burst of flavor and a touch of indulgence, sprinkle grated Romano cheese and crushed red pepper flakes over each serving if you like.
How to Serve Cabbage and Beans in Marinara Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Simple additions like grated Romano cheese elevate the dish by adding a salty, umami punch, while the crushed red pepper flakes bring in just the right amount of heat to awaken the flavors.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread for sopping up the delicious tomato sauce or a light green salad for a fresh, crisp contrast. You could also serve it alongside creamy polenta or fluffy rice to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, layer the cabbage and beans over cooked pasta or stuff the mixture into baked bell peppers for a colorful, inviting presentation. Sprinkling fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving also brightens the dish beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it rests, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, you can freeze the cooled cabbage and beans in marinara sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just be mindful to thaw it fully overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot throughout. Adding a splash of water or extra marinara sauce can help if the mixture seems too thick after being stored.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cabbage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is traditional here, you can experiment with savoy or even Napa cabbage for slightly different textures and flavors that are just as delicious.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes! Simply omit the Romano cheese or substitute with a vegan alternative to keep this Cabbage and Beans in Marinara Sauce Recipe fully plant-based and just as comforting.
Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Definitely! Bell peppers, onions, and even chopped spinach or kale can be fantastic additions, adding layers of flavor and nutrition.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper while simmering. For a smoky touch, consider adding smoked paprika as well.
What kind of marinara sauce works best?
Using a high-quality, flavorful marinara sauce with garlic and herbs is best to elevate the overall taste. You can also make your own if you prefer more control over seasoning.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to try this Cabbage and Beans in Marinara Sauce Recipe soon. It’s a nourishing, approachable dish that’s perfect for busy nights or anytime you want something simple yet satisfying. Once you make it, it might just become one of your new favorites to fall back on again and again!
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Cabbage and Beans in Marinara Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple, comforting Cabbage and Beans recipe that combines tender boiled cabbage with creamy cannellini beans in a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for a quick and nutritious meal that’s both hearty and light, garnished with Romano cheese and a hint of crushed red pepper for an extra kick.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cups green cabbage, roughly chopped
Pantry
- 1 (28-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Optional Garnishes
- Grated Romano cheese, for serving (optional)
- Crushed red pepper flakes, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the cabbage: Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the roughly chopped green cabbage. Boil the cabbage for 5-10 minutes until it softens but is not mushy. Drain the cabbage thoroughly to remove excess water.
- Combine ingredients in skillet: In a large skillet, add the drained cabbage, rinsed and drained cannellini beans, and marinara sauce. Stir the mixture gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the mixture: Place the skillet over medium-high heat and cook the cabbage and beans mixture for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to heat through thoroughly.
- Serve with garnishes: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Optionally, sprinkle grated Romano cheese and crushed red pepper flakes over each serving to add savory depth and a spicy kick.
Notes
- Be sure not to overboil the cabbage to maintain its slight crunch and bright flavor.
- Use low-sodium marinara sauce to reduce salt content if preferred.
- This dish can be made vegan by omitting the Romano cheese or using a plant-based alternative.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
