How to Make Mediterranean White Beans & Greens
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Olive oil is essential for Mediterranean dishes because it gives the food that signature smooth texture and rich flavor. Once the oil is hot, add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 small diced onion to the pan. Sauté these for about 3 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. If you’re using red pepper flakes, add them now to infuse a bit of heat into the oil.
The garlic and onion form the aromatic base of the dish, and their flavor will permeate throughout the beans and greens, adding a comforting depth to the entire dish.
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Herbs
Once the garlic and onions are softened, it’s time to introduce the tomatoes and herbs. Stir in 1 can of diced tomatoes, along with 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and the flavors to meld together. The tomato base will thicken slightly, and the dried herbs will release their aromas.
If you like your Mediterranean White Beans & Greens to have a little extra tang, you can even add a splash of red wine vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at this point. Both are common additions to Mediterranean dishes and will brighten the flavors.
Step 3: Add the Beans and Greens
Now that the base is ready, it’s time to bring in the stars of the dish: the cannellini beans and escarole. Add two cans of cannellini beans (drained and rinsed) and 1 small head of chopped escarole (or spinach/kale if you prefer). Escarole has a slightly bitter flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of the beans and the savory tomato sauce. It wilts down as it cooks, becoming tender and soaking up all the flavors.
Pour in 1/4 cup of vegetable broth or water to help the greens cook down and keep everything from drying out. Stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Simmer and Let the Flavors Meld
Cover the skillet and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes. During this time, the greens will wilt, and the beans will heat through. The flavors will meld together, creating a deliciously comforting and hearty dish. If you prefer your greens a bit more tender, feel free to let it simmer a little longer.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once everything is cooked, it’s time to serve! This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a sprinkle of grated Parmigiano Reggiano on top for an extra boost of flavor. For an even heartier meal, pair it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce, or stir it into cooked ditalini pasta for a Mediterranean pasta dish.
Tips for Customizing Your Mediterranean White Beans & Greens
While this recipe is delicious as-is, there are many ways to customize it to suit your tastes:
- Add protein: For an extra protein boost, you could add some cooked chicken, turkey sausage, or even shrimp to the dish.
- Spice it up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, don’t shy away from adding more red pepper flakes or even a finely chopped fresh chili.
- Substitute the greens: Escarole is slightly bitter, but if you prefer a milder green, you can substitute spinach or kale. Both work wonderfully in this dish.
- Switch up the beans: Cannellini beans are creamy and perfect for this dish, but you can experiment with great northern beans or white beans for a slight variation in texture.
- Make it vegan: If you want to keep the dish vegan, simply skip the Parmigiano Reggiano or substitute with a plant-based cheese.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion
Mediterranean White Beans & Greens is a versatile dish that can be served for any occasion. Here are just a few reasons why this recipe is perfect for all types of meals:
- Quick weeknight dinner: In just under 30 minutes, you can have a hearty, wholesome dinner ready for the family. It’s simple, filling, and packed with nutrients.
- Light yet satisfying: The beans and greens make for a light yet filling meal that won’t leave you feeling overly stuffed. It’s the perfect balance for lunch or dinner.
- Great for meal prep: This recipe can easily be doubled to feed a crowd, and it keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days. Perfect for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.
- Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or looking for a flavorful side dish for a larger meal, Mediterranean White Beans & Greens is bound to impress your guests.
Final Thoughts
Mediterranean White Beans & Greens is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors in a simple, easy-to-make dish. With its wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors, it’s a meal that can be enjoyed by everyone, no matter their dietary preferences. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy weeknight dinner, a side dish for a larger meal, or a light lunch, this recipe will undoubtedly leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.
So, the next time you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal, give this Mediterranean White Beans & Greens recipe a try. It’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
