The Spanish Beans & Eggs is a flavorful, one-pan dish perfect for any meal of the day. Known in Spain as “Una Sarten de Alubias y Huevos,” this hearty recipe features creamy white beans, a rich tomato-based sauce infused with smoked paprika, and perfectly cooked eggs with creamy yolks. It’s easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend brunches.
Full Recipe:
Why You’ll Love Spanish Beans & Eggs
A Flavorful Fusion of Ingredients
At the core of this dish is the harmonious combination of creamy white beans, rich tomato sauce, and smoky paprika. The addition of perfectly poached eggs with velvety yolks elevates it to a complete meal, bursting with flavor and texture. Every bite brings together the sweetness of tomatoes, the depth of paprika, and the richness of eggs, balanced by a hint of fresh herbs.
Quick and Easy
This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days when you want a wholesome, homemade meal without much effort. With minimal chopping and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can confidently prepare this dish.
Versatile and Adaptable
While delicious as is, Spanish Beans & Eggs is also highly versatile. It can be customized with additional ingredients or adjusted to suit dietary preferences. Whether served as breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it fits seamlessly into any meal plan.
Key Ingredients and Their Role
White Beans
White beans, such as cannellini or Great Northern beans, are the star of this recipe, providing a creamy texture and mild flavor that absorbs the rich tomato and paprika sauce. Packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, they make the dish hearty and nutritious.
Tomatoes
The tomato base is the heart of the dish, offering a sweet and tangy balance to the smoky flavors. Using high-quality canned diced tomatoes ensures a rich, concentrated flavor that ties the ingredients together.
Smoked Spanish Paprika
Sweet smoked paprika, or “pimentón,” is a quintessential ingredient in Spanish cuisine, lending a deep smoky flavor and vibrant red hue to the dish. It transforms the tomato sauce into a bold and aromatic base, evoking the essence of traditional Spanish cooking.
Eggs
Eggs add a luscious richness to the dish, their creamy yolks acting as a natural sauce that mingles with the beans and tomato base. They also boost the protein content, making the meal more satisfying.
Herbs and Seasonings
Fresh parsley and chives provide brightness and a touch of earthiness, balancing the richness of the beans and eggs. Sea salt and black pepper enhance the overall flavors without overpowering the dish.
Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil, a staple in Mediterranean cooking, is used to sauté the aromatics and infuse the dish with a subtle fruitiness. It enhances the flavor profile while adding healthy fats.
Health Benefits of Spanish Beans & Eggs
Rich in Nutrients
This dish is a nutritional powerhouse, offering a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. White beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, promoting digestion and heart health. Eggs contribute high-quality protein and essential vitamins, while tomatoes and herbs provide antioxidants that support overall well-being.
Low in Calories
With approximately 320 calories per serving, this dish is filling without being heavy. It’s a great option for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal while maintaining a balanced diet.
Gluten-Free and Vegetarian
Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, Spanish Beans & Eggs is suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. It’s easy to adapt further by adding or substituting ingredients to meet specific needs.
Ways to Customize the Dish
Add More Vegetables
Incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to boost the nutritional value and add more layers of flavor. Sauté them along with the garlic and onions to infuse the dish with their sweetness.
Spice It Up
For those who enjoy a kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red chili flakes, or diced fresh chili to the tomato sauce.
Enhance the Protein
To make the dish even heartier, consider adding sliced chorizo, diced ham, or cooked chickpeas. These ingredients complement the Spanish flavors beautifully.
Experiment with Cheese
Sprinkle crumbled feta or grated Manchego cheese over the top before serving for an extra touch of richness and creaminess.
Serve with Bread
Accompany the dish with crusty bread or a warm baguette to soak up the flavorful sauce. Alternatively, serve it with a side of roasted potatoes or rice for a more substantial meal.
Tips for Perfect Spanish Beans & Eggs
- Use High-Quality Ingredients
Since this recipe relies on simple ingredients, using high-quality tomatoes, olive oil, and paprika ensures the best flavor. - Crack Eggs into Individual Bowls
Cracking the eggs into bowls before adding them to the skillet helps avoid shell pieces and ensures even cooking. - Don’t Overcook the Eggs
To keep the yolks creamy, watch the eggs closely as they cook. Covering the skillet helps the whites set faster while keeping the yolks runny. - Season Gradually
Add salt and pepper in stages to balance the flavors without oversalting the dish. - Garnish Generously
Fresh herbs not only enhance the flavor but also make the dish visually appealing. Don’t skimp on the parsley and chives!
Serving Suggestions
Spanish Beans & Eggs is a versatile dish that pairs well with various accompaniments:
- For Breakfast or Brunch: Serve with toasted bread or English muffins for a satisfying start to the day.
- As a Light Lunch or Dinner: Pair with a crisp green salad or a simple side of roasted vegetables.
- For Entertaining: Present the dish in the skillet for a rustic, family-style meal, and serve with an assortment of tapas or small plates.
Conclusion
The Spanish Beans & Eggs recipe is a true celebration of simple yet bold flavors. Combining creamy white beans, smoky paprika, and rich tomato sauce, this one-pan dish is hearty, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying. The perfectly poached eggs add an indulgent touch, while fresh herbs and olive oil elevate the dish with a Mediterranean flair.
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Spanish Beans & Eggs
Description
The Spanish Beans & Eggs is a flavorful, one-pan dish perfect for any meal of the day. Known in Spain as “Una Sarten de Alubias y Huevos,” this hearty recipe features creamy white beans, a rich tomato-based sauce infused with smoked paprika, and perfectly cooked eggs with creamy yolks. It’s easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend brunches.
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (30 ml)
- 20 oz canned white beans (2 1/2 cups / 400 g)
- 4 cage-free organic eggs
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 onion, finely diced
- 15 oz can diced tomatoes (410 g)
- 1 tsp sweet smoked Spanish paprika (2.30 g)
- 1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley (3.80 g)
- 2 tbsp freshly chopped chives (6 g)
- Sea salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Rinse the white beans under cold running water.
- Thinly slice the garlic, finely dice the onion, and crack the eggs into individual bowls.
- Cook the Base:
- Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and add 2 tbsp olive oil.
- Once heated, sauté the garlic and onion for 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add 1 tsp sweet smoked paprika and mix for 30 seconds.
- Make the Sauce:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, parsley, and 1 tbsp chives.
- Season with sea salt and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add the white beans and mix well. Let it simmer for another 3 minutes.
- Cook the Eggs:
- Create small pockets in the skillet and gently pour each egg into its own pocket.
- Lightly season the eggs with sea salt and black pepper.
- Cover the pan and cook for 2 minutes, then uncover and cook for an additional 2–4 minutes until the egg whites are fully set, but the yolks remain creamy.
- Serve:
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped chives. Serve immediately and enjoy!
- Category: Lunch