Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: about 12 minutes Serves: none 3 cans (15 1/2 ounce) cannellini (white) beans, drained
1/3 cup pesto, store-bought or homemade
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Mix the beans and pesto, add the salt and the pepper, and sprinkle on the cheese.

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the drained beans in a medium-size shallow casserole or gratin dish. Add the pesto and

stir well to coat all the beans. Season with salt and pepper. Bake for 10 minutes.

2. Sprinkle parmesan cheese evenly over the beans and place under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Pre-party prep: This can be prepared up to a day before. Assemble; cover tightly with foil. Bake, then add cheese, and broil at the party. PER SERVING ( 3/4 cup): 243 calories, 6 g fat (1.4 saturated), 600 mg sodium, 2 mg cholesterol. Beans make this dish an excellent source of fiber; most of the fat comes from heart-healthy monounsaturated fat in the olive oil and pine nuts.