Mediterranean White Beans & Greens
Rustic. Cozy. Nourishing. And ready in under 30 minutes!
This hearty bowl of white beans and tender greens simmered in a garlicky tomato broth is a Mediterranean classic with soul-soothing vibes. Whether you’re curled up on a rainy day or craving a light yet satisfying meal, this one-pan dish is always a good idea.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about the way humble ingredients come together in this dish to create layers of flavor and texture. Creamy cannellini beans, juicy tomatoes, and wilted greens are gently simmered in olive oil and herbs. The result? A rich, savory medley that feels both wholesome and indulgent.
Plus, it’s:
- One-pan friendly
- Plant-based (or vegetarian with cheese)
- Rich in fiber, protein & antioxidants
- Perfect with crusty bread or pasta
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this Mediterranean bowl of goodness:
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a gentle kick)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 small head escarole, chopped (or use spinach, kale, or Swiss chard)
- ¼ cup vegetable broth or water
- Grated Parmigiano Reggiano, for topping
- Crusty bread or cooked ditalini pasta, for serving (optional but highly recommended!)
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic, onion, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes, until the onions become translucent and the kitchen starts to smell amazing.
Tip: Don’t rush this step—it builds the flavor foundation for the whole dish!
2. Add Tomatoes & Herbs
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes so the flavors can meld beautifully.
3. Stir in the Beans & Greens
Add the cannellini beans and chopped escarole (or your favorite greens). Pour in the broth or water and gently stir to combine.
4. Simmer & Soften
Cover and let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, or until the greens have wilted and everything is bubbling and fragrant.
5. Serve with Love
Ladle into bowls and top with a generous sprinkle of Parmigiano Reggiano. Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and cracked black pepper if desired.
Serve with:
- A hunk of warm crusty bread for dipping
- Cooked ditalini or orzo pasta mixed right in for a heartier meal
- A side of marinated olives or a fresh tomato-cucumber salad for a full Mediterranean spread
Variations & Tips
Make it vegan: Skip the Parm or use nutritional yeast for cheesy notes.
Switch up the greens: Kale, spinach, mustard greens, or even beet greens work beautifully.
Turn it into a stew: Add more broth and throw in cooked quinoa or rice for a thicker stew-style bowl.
Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a poached egg for an extra punch.
Nutritional Highlights
- Protein-packed thanks to the beans
- Fiber-rich and gut-friendly
- Loaded with antioxidants from garlic, olive oil, and leafy greens
- Low in calories, big on flavor!
Serving Size & Storage
This recipe yields 4 hearty servings. Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave and add a splash of broth to loosen if needed.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean White Beans & Greens dish is one of those simple recipes that tastes like home. It’s cozy, comforting, and deeply nourishing—perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or those moments when you want something warm and satisfying without a lot of fuss.
Grab your spoon and a chunk of crusty bread—it’s time to dig in!
Buon Appetito!
