Beans And Escarole
A hearty Mediterranean bean and escarole stew featuring tender greens, ripe tomatoes, and cannellini beans, perfect for comforting, healthy family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the escarole and cut it into 1-inch strips.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil and garlic halves for 2 minutes.
- Discard the garlic, add the diced peeled and seeded tomatoes and salt, cover and cook for 5 minutes.
- Remove the escarole from water and add it to the pot with the water clinging to the leaves.
- Cover and cook about 15 minutes, stirring now and then.
- Add the cannellini beans and black pepper, then cook for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic. If escarole is hard to find, kale can be a suitable substitute. For a heartier dish, mix in some cooked sausage or pancetta. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also elevate the dish's flavor profile, making it a great accompaniment to Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beans and escarole as a main dish with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. It pairs beautifully with Lemon Pilaf for a complete meal. Consider a light side salad or a dollop of White Bean Garlic Dip to complement the dish. A glass of Sangria Blanco can also enhance the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking. This dish can also be enjoyed cold as a salad the next day, making it versatile for meal prep.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beans And Escarole contains roughly 1609 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 180g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of beans in this recipe?
Yes, while cannellini beans are traditional, you can substitute them with navy beans or great northern beans. Each type offers a slightly different texture and flavor, so feel free to experiment based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! This beans and escarole recipe is naturally vegan, making it a great option for those following a plant-based diet. The combination of beans and greens provides a hearty meal packed with nutrients and flavor without any animal products.
How can I add more protein to this dish?
To increase the protein content, you can add cooked quinoa or lentils along with the beans. Alternatively, incorporating some grilled chicken or shrimp would also work well if you prefer a meat option, keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).