Orecchiette and Cannellini Beans with Rosemary

Orecchiette and Cannellini Beans with Rosemary A cozy Italian-inspired pasta and bean dish with creamy cannellini beans, fragrant rosemary, garlic, olive oil, and tender orecchiette. Simple, rustic, filling, and perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner. Servings: 4 Ingredients: 320 g / 11.3 oz orecchiette 480 g / 17 oz cooked cannellini beans, drained 240 ml / 1 cup pasta cooking water, reserved 45 ml / 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 2 garlic cloves, about 10 g / 0.35 oz, finely sliced 2 fresh rosemary sprigs, about 4 g / 0.14 oz 1 small onion, 90 g / 3.2 oz, finely chopped 120 g / 4.2 oz cherry tomatoes, halved 30 g / 1 oz grated Parmesan or pecorino, optional 2 g / 1 tsp lemon zest, optional 6 g / 1 tsp fine salt, plus more for pasta water 1 g / 1/2 tsp black pepper Chili flakes, optional Method: 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette and cook until al dente, following the package timing. Before draining, reserve 240 ml / 1 cup pasta water. 2. Warm the olive oil in a large pan over medium-low heat. Add onion, garlic, and rosemary. Cook gently for 4–5 minutes, stirring often, until soft and fragrant, without browning the garlic. 3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3 minutes, pressing them lightly so they release their juices. 4. Add the cannellini beans, salt, pepper, and a splash of reserved pasta water. Simmer for 5 minutes, then mash about one third of the beans to create a creamy sauce. 5. Add the drained orecchiette to the pan. Toss for 1–2 minutes, adding more pasta water little by little until the sauce coats the pasta. 6. Remove the rosemary stems. Stir in Parmesan or pecorino if using. Finish with lemon zest, chili flakes, and a drizzle of olive oil. Dish type: Pasta, vegetarian main course, comfort food Garnish / serving suggestion: Serve hot in shallow bowls with rosemary tips, black pepper, grated cheese, lemon zest, and toasted rustic bread on the side. Notes: For a creamier texture, mash more beans. For a vegan version, skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Canned beans work well; rinse and drain them before use. Time: 10 minutes prep, 20 minutes cook, 30 minutes total Difficulty: Easy Estimated calories per serving: about 470 kcal Please refer to our channel Info page for full safety and usage notes. If you like simple recipes, subscribe to WhatsRecipe and activate the notification bell!    / @whatsrecipe   #orecchiette #cannellinibeans #pastaandbeans #rosemary #italianrecipes #comfortfood #easyrecipes #vegetarianrecipes #whatsrecipe