Lemon & Paprika Garbanzo Bean and Spinach Stew

Simple spring dinners combine with beans, spring vegetables and greens for pure and simple one-skillet entrees.  Top these bean stews with poached eggs for a little extra protein.

In this recipe, canned beans are used.  You can substitute freshly made if you'd like.  1/2 cup dried beans will yield about one 15-ounce can of beans.

Lemon & Paprika Garbanzo Bean and Spinach Stew
Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients
1 can low sodium garbanzo beans, rinsed
1 can vegetable or chicken broth
1 lemon, sliced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 9-ounce packaged baby spinach
optional: 4 eggs

Method

1. In a large skillet, combine drained beans with next four ingredients, broth through paprika.
2. Cook uncovered on low heat  for about 10 minutes, until beans are heated through and liquid is reduced by about one third.
3. Add spinach and cover.  Heat until spinach has wilted.  This will take just two to three minutes. 
4. Uncover and add eggs.  Use a spoon to create 4 small craters or divers in the bean and spinach mixture. Crack one egg into each shallow crater.  Re-cover skillet and cook two minutes until egg whites are cooked through and yolks have just set.  
5. Serve immediately with crusty bread.