CHEAT’S CASSOULET

This is comfort food from France. Beans, like lentils, are a great source of fibre and have even been found to improve quality of sleep. Serve steaming hot with lots of green leafy veg.

Serves 4 445cals per serving

1tbsp olive oil

6 spicy sausages (around 400g/14oz), such as Toulouse or spicy pork

1 large onion, peeled and thinly sliced

100g (3½oz) cubed smoked lardons, pancetta or bacon 1 x 400g tin haricot or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

1 x 400g tin chopped tomatoes 1tsp dried mixed herbs

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

A handful of spinach

Heat the oil in a wide-based, non-stick saucepan or flame-proof casserole, add the sausages and cook over a medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until browned on all sides, turning regularly. Remove from the pan and rest on a board.

Add the onion and lardons, pancetta or bacon to the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring, until golden. Cut the sausages in half if large and return them to the pan, and add the beans, tomatoes and herbs. Stir in 150ml water and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover loosely and cook for 18-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more water if the sauce thickens too much.

Season to taste and stir in the spinach to wilt, then serve.