Did you know that white beans are one of the most protein-rich legumes, packing a whopping 15 grams per cup? Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick dinner solutions or a food enthusiast exploring Mediterranean cuisine, this white bean and basil recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero! I’ve perfected this recipe through countless iterations, and trust me – it’s a game-changer. The combination of creamy cannellini beans and aromatic fresh basil creates a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours, but it’s ready in just 15 minutes.
White Bean and Basil Dish
Ingredients
- White Beans (Cannellini or Navy):Â 2 cups simmered (or 1 can that has been drained and washed)
- Fresh Basil Half cup of basil, chopped
- Garlic:Â 2 cloves, minced
- Olive Oil 2 tablespoons
- lemon Juice:Â 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed
- Vegetable Broth (or Water):Â 1/2 cup
- Cherry tomatoes:Â 1 cup, cut in half (optional for extra color and taste)
- Parmesan (optional):Â 1/4 cup and grated
- Salt and Pepper:Â To taste
- Crumbled Red Pepper Flakes (optional):Â A little for some spice
Instructions
- Sauté garlic Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large pot at medium-high temperature. Then add the minced garlic, and cook for about 1-2 minutes or until the garlic is the garlic is fragrant (but not burned).
- Add the white beans: Add the white beans to the skillet, and mix them in with the garlic. Add the broth for vegetables, and allow it to simmer for about 5-7 minutes. This will allow beans to take in flavors.
- Mix in The Basil as well as the Lemon: Remove the pan from the stove and mix in the chopped basil as well as lemon juice. The basil leaves will soften just a little under the heat, giving off a delicious scent!
- Season and garnish: Season with salt as well as pepper. Add the addition of a few red pepper flakes, if you want a touch of spice. If you want to add more flavor garnish with grated Parmesan.
- Serve and enjoy! Serve this dish warm for a meal along with crusty bread, or serve it as a side dish with grilled vegetables, chicken or fish.🍋🍞
Nutrition Information:
- Serving Size 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick Easy to make in less than 20 minutes. It’s the perfect choice for quick dinners on a weeknight.
- Delicious and healthy It is packed with protein from plants along with fiber and freshly prepared ingredients.
- Cost-effective Recipe made from simple food items as well as fresh herbs.
- Multi-purpose: This can be served as a main course or a side dish, and can be easily customizable.
- A delicious taste The blend of white beans as well as garlic, basil, and lemon make a rich aroma, creamy, and delicious recipe.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- White beans White Beans are the star of the meal, it is packed with protein as well as creaminess. Cannellini beans are a good choice for navy beans. Great Northern beans. If you aren’t able to find the white beans you need, then chickpeas can be a good alternative.
- Fresh basil The essential ingredient for the vibrant and aromatic aroma. If you don’t have basil fresh cilantro or parsley may be substituted. However, it will have a different flavor.
- Lemon is a brightening and acidity. The lime can be substituted or even some vinegar in small amounts.
- Garlic is a great source of flavor. Fresh garlic is the best however garlic powder may be utilized in the event of need.
- Olive Oil: It is used for sauteing, and also to add richness. It is possible to substitute avocado oil, or even butter for an entirely different flavor.
How to Make White Bean and Basil Recipe (Step-by-Step)
- ready Your ingredients Take all of the ingredients. Wash the beans in water If canned cut the fresh basil and chop the garlic.
- Sauté the Garlic to heat olive oil on a pan on medium flame. Then add the minced garlic, and stir fry until delicious. Take care not to burn the garlic. This process should last a few minutes.
- Cook the beans add the beans that are white to the skillet and stir along with the garlic. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes or until the beans are cooked.
- Add Seasonings and Lemon Lemon and Seasonings: Rub the lemon over the beans. Juice it, then add the juice to the skillet. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper according to your preference. Lemon adds lovely brightness that helps balance the creaminess of beans.
- Include Fresh Basil Then, remove the pan from the flame and add fresh chopped basil. The heat of the beans can slightly soften the basil to release the scent and taste without boiling the basil to the point of overcooking.
- Serve Transfer the beans into a serving dish, then drizzle them with some olive oil, if you like then have a blast! The dish is delicious with a crusty piece of bread that soaks up the rich sauce.
Expert Tips for Success
- Make use of fresh ingredients Fresh basil and lemon juice contribute to the intense taste of this recipe. Beware of together dried basil or bottles of lemon juice.
- Do not rush to cook the Garlic: The slow cooking of garlic on moderate heat lets its flavors shine through and does not cause it to burn. A burned garlic may impart bitterness.
- Adjust with the Lemon: Lemon juice is a great source of brightness, however, too much juice can be overwhelming to the food. Start with half the juice of a lemon, and later taste, and then adjust the amount as necessary.
- Use Olive Oil last The final splash of olive oil that is good quality adds depth and improves overall taste.
Variations and Customizations
- Add vegetables It is possible to mix with extra fruits and vegetables such as cherries tomatoes, zucchini roasted as well as spinach for additional color and nutrition.
- Get it creamy Mix in a teaspoon of Greek yogurt, or a splash of coconut milk for extra sweetness.
- Increase the Protein Add some grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a delicious addition to the meal even more satisfying and protein-rich.
- Cheesy twist If you’re fond of cheese, add some Feta or Parmesan over the the top for additional taste.
- Spicy Punch Add a dash of red pepper flakes in order to provide the dish with a bit of spicy.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for three days or more.
- Reheating: To warm, place the beans in a saucepan at a low temperature until it is heated. It is possible to add some olive oil or water if you feel your beans are to be dry.
- Freezing This recipe can be stored in the freezer for two months or more. Then, let it sit in the fridge overnight before heating.
Serving Suggestions
- for a main Dish Serve this white Bean and Basil recipe along with crispy bread, or on the top of quinoa or rice for an entire dinner.
- For a Side Dish, This dish goes perfectly with barbecued meats, baked vegetables, or even a basic green salad.
- With Soup Serve it with an ice-cold cup of soup made from tomatoes for an incredibly comforting and delicious dish.
Conclusion
Recipe for White Bean with Basil Recipe is an easy and delicious dish that is perfect for every occasion. It’s healthy easy to prepare and extremely versatile. If you’re an experienced cook or just starting at cooking the recipe will be sure to be a hit with its vibrant flavours and comforting taste. Try it out, and soon you’ll find that it’s a staple meal at home!
Looking for more lunch inspiration? Check out these delicious lunch recipes.