Description
Braised White Beans & Greens is a hearty Italian-inspired dish featuring tender cannellini beans and leafy greens simmered in an herbaceous broth with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh rosemary, thyme, garlic, and a touch of Calabrian chiles for a mild kick. This vegan and gluten-free recipe is perfect for a cozy, nourishing meal, served warm with vegan parmesan and crusty bread.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons oil (from the sun-dried tomatoes if possible)
- 2 shallots (fine dice, or substitute 1 small yellow onion)
- 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon chopped Calabrian chiles (optional; or substitute 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes)
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)
- 1 large bunch kale or Swiss chard (stems removed and thinly sliced)
- 30 ounces canned cannellini beans (rinsed and drained, about 2 cans)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Juice of 1 lemon (1-2 tablespoons)
For Serving
- Vegan parmesan (optional)
- Black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare Aromatics: Warm a large dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and add the oil. Sauté the finely diced shallots, minced fresh rosemary, and thyme leaves for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shallots are tender and fragrant.
- Add Flavor Enhancers: Stir in the minced garlic, chopped Calabrian chiles or chili flakes, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and nutritional yeast if using. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute until fragrant to release all the combined flavors.
- Add Beans and Greens: Add the rinsed and drained cannellini beans to the pot. Stir to combine, then use the back of a spoon or spatula to mash about one-quarter of the beans, creating a creamy texture that helps thicken the dish. Add the vegetable broth, kale or Swiss chard, and mix well to evenly distribute the greens.
- Simmer and Thicken: Bring the entire mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces and thickens slightly. For a thicker consistency, mash additional beans to your liking during this time.
- Finish and Serve: Turn off the heat and stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Serve the dish warm, topped with vegan parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper. Enjoy with crusty bread if desired.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months for longer preservation.
Notes
- Braised White Beans & Greens is an Italian-inspired recipe offering a nutritious, flavorful way to enjoy beans and leafy greens in a comforting broth.
- This recipe is vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for multiple dietary preferences.
- Using oil from the sun-dried tomatoes adds extra flavor, but vegetable or olive oil can be substituted if unavailable.
- Adjust the spiciness by adding or omitting Calabrian chiles or chili flakes to suit your taste.
- Serve this dish with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated and also freeze nicely for future meals.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 358 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 494 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.03 g
- Carbohydrates: 56 g
- Fiber: 12 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
