Bean Pasta Recipe Vegan: Easy, Healthy, and Delicious Meal

Updated On: October 5, 2025

If you’re searching for a hearty, healthy, and flavor-packed dinner that happens to be completely plant-based, you’re going to love this vegan bean pasta recipe. This dish is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly comforting.

Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply trying to add more plant-based meals to your menu, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the creamy, protein-rich goodness of beans with all the comfort of a classic pasta dish.

What I love most about this bean pasta is its incredible versatility. You can use any variety of beans you have on hand—cannellini, black beans, or even chickpeas work beautifully.

Paired with your favorite pasta and a medley of vibrant vegetables, this recipe is as nourishing as it is satisfying. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Let’s dive in and discover how to make this delicious vegan staple part of your regular rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Protein-Packed: Beans add a hearty dose of plant-based protein, making this meal satisfying and energizing.
  • Quick & Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, you can have dinner on the table in less than 30 minutes.
  • Customizable: Swap in your favorite beans, veggies, or pasta shapes to suit your taste or whatever you have in your pantry.
  • Budget-Friendly: Beans and pasta are both affordable pantry staples—perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping on a budget.
  • Totally Vegan & Dairy-Free: No animal products here, just wholesome, vibrant ingredients.
  • Great for Leftovers: This dish stores and reheats beautifully for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti) 12 oz (340g)
Canned beans (cannellini, black, or chickpeas, drained & rinsed) 2 cups (1.5 cans, about 15 oz each)
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Yellow onion (finely chopped) 1 medium
Garlic cloves (minced) 3
Cherry tomatoes (halved) or canned diced tomatoes 1 cup
Fresh spinach (or kale, roughly chopped) 3 cups
Vegetable broth 1/2 cup
Lemon juice (fresh) 2 tablespoons
Nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor) 2 tablespoons
Salt & pepper To taste
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat) 1/2 teaspoon
Fresh basil or parsley (chopped, for garnish) 2 tablespoons

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Colander
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

  1. Boil the pasta:

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.

    Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

  2. Sauté the aromatics:

    While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.

    Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  3. Add tomatoes and beans:

    Stir in the cherry tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes) and cook for 3 minutes, until they start to release their juices. Add the drained beans, mixing gently to combine.

  4. Deglaze and simmer:

    Pour in the vegetable broth and reserved pasta water, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

  5. Add greens and seasonings:

    Stir in the chopped spinach (or kale), nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until the greens are wilted, about 1-2 minutes.

  6. Toss in the pasta:

    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Adjust seasoning to taste.

  7. Serve:

    Divide the pasta among bowls. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Tips & Variations

  • Bean swap: Use any bean you love—try pinto, navy, or even lentils for a fun twist.
  • Veggie boost: Add zucchini, bell pepper, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrition.
  • Gluten-free option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Cheesy flavor: Mix in an extra tablespoon of nutritional yeast or a spoonful of your favorite vegan cheese.
  • Make it creamy: Blend half the beans with some broth before adding to the skillet for a rich, creamy sauce.
  • Meal prep: This dish keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
  • Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick dinner down the road.

“Don’t be afraid to experiment with different beans and greens—this recipe is all about making it your own!”

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1/4 Recipe)
Calories 390
Protein 16g
Carbohydrates 62g
Fiber 12g
Fat 7g
Sodium 390mg
Sugar 6g
Iron 20% DV
Calcium 10% DV

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with crusty bread: Pair your bean pasta with a slice of Green Chile Cheese Bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
  • Add a fresh salad: A simple leafy green salad with lemon vinaigrette brightens up the meal.
  • Top with vegan parmesan: Sprinkle homemade or store-bought vegan parmesan for extra flavor.
  • Enjoy with a refreshing drink: Try a glass of Green Goodness Juice for a nutrient-packed pairing.
  • Round out with dessert: Treat yourself to a comforting classic like Grandma’s Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce to finish the meal on a sweet note.

Conclusion

This vegan bean pasta recipe is the kind of meal that proves plant-based eating can be both satisfying and incredibly flavorful. With its rich blend of hearty beans, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that checks every box: quick, nutritious, affordable, and endlessly adaptable.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Don’t forget to customize the ingredients to suit your tastes—try different beans, toss in seasonal vegetables, or experiment with bold herbs and spices. Cooking should be fun and creative!

And if you’re on the lookout for more vegan inspiration, check out our Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe for a wholesome breakfast, or the deliciously simple Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe to jazz up any veggies.

Every plant-based meal you make is a step toward a healthier you and a happier planet—enjoy every bite!

📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Bean Pasta

Description: A hearty, protein-packed vegan pasta dish featuring white beans and tomatoes. Perfect for a quick, nutritious weeknight meal.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 12 oz whole wheat pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in white beans and cook for 2 minutes.
  5. Add diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  6. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  8. Combine cooked pasta with the bean and tomato mixture.
  9. Toss well and serve warm.

Nutrition: Calories: 390 kcal | Protein: 16 g | Fat: 6 g | Carbs: 70 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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