Beans And Tomatoes
A hearty Mediterranean bean and tomato stew with fragrant sage and garlic, perfect for comforting meals and versatile for vegetarian or meat-eater preferences.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the crushed garlic and fresh sage; sauté until fragrant.
- Add the peeled and chopped tomatoes and simmer gently for 20 minutes.
- Add the cannellini beans, cover, and cook over very low heat for 30 minutes.
- Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. The dish should have the consistency of a soup.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking. If you don't have fresh sage, dried sage can work in a pinch—just use a smaller amount as it's more concentrated. Canned tomatoes can be substituted for fresh if necessary, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. This dish also pairs well with Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Beans and Tomatoes warm, garnished with additional fresh sage or a drizzle of olive oil. This dish is perfect as a main course or as a hearty side. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping or a light salad, such as Tabooly Salad, to balance the meal. For a complete feast, consider serving it alongside Sliced Orange Dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the desired consistency. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beans And Tomatoes contains roughly 771 calories, with 3g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1934mg per serving (84% 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 dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried cannellini beans. Soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the recipe. Keep in mind that this will increase your preparation time significantly, so plan accordingly.
What can I substitute for sage?
If you don't have fresh sage, you can substitute with thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile. Use about half the amount of dried herbs, as they are more potent than fresh. Experimenting with your favorite herbs can create a unique twist on the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic and sage, or mix in a diced jalapeño with the tomatoes. Adjust the quantity to suit your spice tolerance, and enjoy the extra kick!
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).