Comforting, warming and completely meat free. This is a humble dish packed full of flavour and goodness, which is perfect served for lunch or dinner. The Red Pepper and Almond Pesto (a classic Spanish sauce also known as Romesco) is beautiful when drizzled on top of these creamy beans, but also the perfect accompaniment to some toasted, garlic rubbed ciabatta or served with a grilled pork chop or oily fish.
Based on 4 servings, adjust as needed.
Preheat the oven to 220°C/200°C fan. Place the sliced squash onto a baking sheet and drizzle with half of the olive oil, paprika, salt and pepper. Place into the oven to roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelised.
While the squash is cooking, place a wide-based pan on a medium heat and add remaining olive oil. Add the white onions, season with salt and pepper and sweat (cook without colour) for 8-10 minutes until the onions are translucent and sticky. Add the sliced garlic and smoked paprika. Cook for a further 2 minutes before adding the wine (if using).
Pour in the white beans and their stock. Bring to the boil and allow to simmer for 2-3 minutes. The texture of the beans should be thick and creamy and you can use the back of a spoon or fork to break them down slightly.
Remove the squash from the oven. If serving your beans with a baguette, pop it in the oven to warm through while you gently mash the cooked squash it with the back of a fork. Fold the "squashed squash", through the creamy beans along with the sherry vinegar and roasted red pepper pesto. Check for seasoning. Bring back to a simmer before dividing the beans between 4 bowls, topping with a little more pesto, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil if you wish and the warmed baguettes on the side.