Herb & Pinto Bean Pasta Bowl

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta

   3 min hands-on

   • Cook the pasta in boiling salted water until al dente according to package instructions.
   • Reserve some pasta cooking water before draining.

2. Create the Bean Sauce Base

   1 min hands-on4 min waiting

   • Heat drained and rinsed pinto beans with some water in a large saucepan over medium heat.
   • Stir occasionally until the beans soften and heat through.

3. Incorporate the Creamy Element

   2 min hands-on

   • Add cream cheese to the beans and stir over low heat until melted and smooth.
   • Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.

4. Season the Sauce

   • Taste and season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
   • Stir well and keep warm over low heat.

5. Chop the Fresh Basil

   2 min hands-on

   • Finely chop fresh basil leaves.
   • Reserve a portion for garnish and add the rest to the sauce, stirring to combine.

6. Combine Pasta and Sauce

   1 min hands-on

   • Add drained pasta to the saucepan with the sauce.
   • Toss gently to coat, adding more pasta water if needed.

7. Plating and Garnish

   2 min hands-on

   • Divide pasta into serving bowls.
   • Garnish with reserved chopped basil and serve immediately while warm.
   • Cooking tips:
   • For an extra layer of flavor, stir in a tablespoon of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
   • Use a wide, shallow saucepan for the sauce to ensure even heating and easier stirring.
   • If you prefer a smoother sauce, mash some of the pinto beans with the back of a spoon before adding the cream cheese.
   • To boost the umami flavor, sprinkle a small amount of grated Parmesan on top.