Pasta with Creamy White Beans

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 tsp

kosher salt, plus more for the pasta

1 lb

shell pasta

1/4 cup

olive oil

carrot, peeled and diced

small red onion, diced

1 1/2 tsp

kosher salt

1/2 tsp

red pepper flakes

1/4 tsp

dried thyme

1 15 ounce can

cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup

low-sodium chicken broth

8 oz

smoked provolone or smoked mozzarella, grated (about 2 cups)

1 5 ounce container

baby spinach, chopped