Mediterranean White Beans & Greens
Mediterranean White Beans & Greens is a delightful and wholesome dish that combines hearty cannellini beans with vibrant greens for a flavorful experience. This simple yet satisfying recipe is not just easy on the eyes but also on the palate, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. The aroma of sautéed garlic and onion mingles with the earthy notes of beans and fresh greens, creating a symphony of flavors that beckons you to dive in. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious weeknight dinner or a side dish for gatherings, this step-by-step recipe allows even novice cooks to shine in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re on the lookout for a quick and easy recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor, Mediterranean White Beans & Greens fits the bill perfectly! It utilizes minimal ingredients that come together in no time. This family-friendly dish is versatile enough to please everyone at the table, even the pickiest of eaters. Whether served as an entrée or a side dish, its robust flavors and comforting textures make it irresistible. Best of all, you can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
For Mediterranean White Beans & Greens
Here’s what you need for this incredible dish:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 small head escarole, chopped (you can substitute spinach or kale)
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water
- Grated Parmigiano Reggiano, for serving
- Crusty bread or cooked ditalini pasta, optional
Step-by-Step Directions
Heat the Olive Oil: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow it to warm slightly before moving to the next step.
Sauté the Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and diced onion to the skillet, along with red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Sauté for about 3 minutes or until softened and fragrant.
Add the Tomatoes and Herbs: Stir in the diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Incorporate Beans and Greens: Add the rinsed cannellini beans and the chopped escarole, then pour in the vegetable broth. Give it a gentle stir to combine all the ingredients.
Simmer and Blend the Flavors: Cover the skillet and reduce the heat slightly. Let it simmer for 10 minutes until the greens are wilted and the flavors are well blended.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the dish hot, topped with grated Parmigiano Reggiano. You can also enjoy it with crusty bread or toss it with cooked ditalini pasta for a heartier meal.
Tips & Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opting for fresh herbs and high-quality olive oil can elevate the flavors.
- Customize Your Greens: While escarole is traditional, spinach or kale makes suitable substitutes if you prefer.
- Extra Flavor: A squeeze of lemon juice before serving adds brightness and enhances the dish.
- Make It a Meal: Serve it with a protein like grilled chicken or salmon for a complete dinner.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy heat, add sliced jalapeños or more red pepper flakes to kick it up a notch.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
To make your Mediterranean White Beans & Greens a feast for the senses, consider serving it in a large, shallow bowl. Gather some crusty bread or pita for dipping, or cook up some ditalini pasta to mix in. A fresh side salad with a citrus vinaigrette pairs beautifully, while a light white wine or herbal iced tea can complement the robust flavors of the dish. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving.
Nutritional Information
One serving of Mediterranean White Beans & Greens includes approximately 350 calories, packed with protein and fiber from the beans and nutritious greens. It’s low in saturated fat and full of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for lunch or dinner. The dish also makes room for indulgence with the addition of cheese, which provides rich flavor without excessive calories.
Storing Tips & Variations For Mediterranean White Beans & Greens
This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days, making it perfect for meal prep. To reheat, gently warm over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up if needed. For variations, try adding other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or include proteins such as chicken or chickpeas for an even heartier dish. If you’re looking for lighter options, consider sautéing the greens with garlic and olive oil without the beans—delicious and healthy!
Conclusion For Mediterranean White Beans & Greens
Mediterranean White Beans & Greens is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors. Easy to prepare and satisfying to the soul, this dish beckons to be tried in your own kitchen. Don’t wait too long—gather your ingredients and dive into this delicious, nutritious recipe!
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, Mediterranean White Beans & Greens is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Simply omit the cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat over low heat and add a splash of broth as needed.
3. Can I freeze Mediterranean White Beans & Greens?
Absolutely! This dish can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to let it cool fully before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
4. What other greens can I use?
While escarole gives a unique flavor, you may also use kale, collard greens, or Swiss chard as tasty alternatives.
5. How can I add more protein to the dish?
To increase the protein content, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even some cooked lentils along with the beans for a hearty meal.
Mediterranean White Beans & Greens
Ingredients
For the base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil High-quality for best flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional, for a hint of heat.
For the mix
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the bulk
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 small head escarole, chopped Can substitute with spinach or kale.
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water
For garnish/serving
- Grated Parmigiano Reggiano For serving.
- Crusty bread or cooked ditalini pasta Optional.
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and diced onion to the skillet, along with red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Sauté for about 3 minutes or until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add the rinsed cannellini beans and chopped escarole, then pour in the vegetable broth.
- Cover the skillet and reduce the heat slightly. Let it simmer for 10 minutes until the greens are wilted and the flavors are well blended.
- Serve the dish hot, topped with grated Parmigiano Reggiano.