The rich and comforting flavors of this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew make it the perfect easy lunch or dinner. This dairy-free, plant-based recipe is quick to prepare and is packed with wholesome ingredients, including protein-rich white beans, juicy cherry tomatoes, and vibrant greens. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly day or a healthy option for a busy weeknight, this stew fits the bill.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from white beans and vitamins from fresh greens, it’s a healthy choice.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, quinoa, or simply on its own for a fulfilling meal.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of tomatoes and vegan cream cheese creates a creamy texture that delights the palate.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Perfect for those following vegan diets or anyone seeking lighter meals.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, gather your essential kitchen tools before starting. Having everything in place will help you focus on creating this delicious stew.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Whisk
- Small bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking the stew evenly while allowing enough space for all ingredients.
- Whisk: Great for mixing arrowroot starch with broth to achieve the right consistency without lumps.
Ingredients
Fresh Produce
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced
- 8 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups baby greens, like baby arugula or spinach
- 1 small lemon, juiced
- ¼ cup fresh basil, sliced, to garnish
Canned & Packaged Goods
- 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, or other white beans of choice, drained and rinsed
- 1¼ cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Dry Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon arrowroot starch, tapioca starch, or cornstarch
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Dairy Alternatives
- ¼ cup vegan cream cheese (you can also replace with coconut cream or cashew cream)
How to Make Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a medium saucepan over medium heat:
1. Add 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil.
2. Add the sliced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients
Next, incorporate additional flavor:
1. Add minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste.
2. Cook while stirring constantly for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Prepare the Broth Mixture
In a separate small bowl:
1. Whisk together the arrowroot starch with a splash of vegetable broth.
2. Mix this into the remaining vegetable broth.
Step 4: Combine Everything in the Pan
Return to your saucepan:
1. Pour in the broth mixture along with drained white beans.
2. Allow it to simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Stir in Creaminess and Greens
Add richness to your stew:
1. Stir in vegan cream cheese until melted.
2. Mix in baby greens and cook for about 1 minute until wilted.
3. Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the stew and season with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Serve Your Stew
Top with fresh basil before serving:
1. Enjoy this creamy tomato white bean stew over rice, quinoa, or simply on its own!
Now you have a delightful dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying!
How to Serve Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew
Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want something light or hearty, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.
Over Rice
- Serve the stew over fluffy white or brown rice for a filling and nutritious meal.
With Quinoa
- Pair it with quinoa to add a nutty flavor and extra protein, making it even more satisfying.
On Toast
- Spoon the stew onto crusty bread for a delightful open-faced sandwich that’s perfect for lunch.
With Fresh Salad
- Enjoy the stew alongside a fresh green salad to balance flavors and add crunch to your meal.
As a Standalone Dish
- This creamy stew is delicious on its own. Just grab a bowl and enjoy!
With Crusty Bread
- Accompany the stew with some warm crusty bread for dipping—a lovely addition to soak up all that creamy goodness.
How to Perfect Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew
Perfecting your Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is all about enhancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will make your stew more vibrant and flavorful.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Add salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Experiment with beans: While cannellini beans are great, try other white beans like navy or great northern for different textures.
- Add depth: Consider adding smoked paprika or nutritional yeast for an extra layer of flavor.
- Let it simmer longer: If time allows, let the stew simmer longer to deepen the flavors even further.
- Garnish generously: Top with fresh basil or parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:
Garlic Bread
A classic choice; warm garlic bread complements the creamy stew beautifully.Roasted Vegetables
Seasonal roasted veggies add texture and nutrients, enhancing the overall meal.Couscous Salad
A light couscous salad with lemon dressing offers freshness that pairs nicely with the rich stew.Hummus and Veggies
A platter of hummus with assorted fresh vegetables makes for a healthy appetizer or side.Pickled Cucumbers
The tanginess of pickled cucumbers provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the stew.Steamed Asparagus
Lightly steamed asparagus adds both color and crunch, making it an elegant side dish.Chickpea Salad
A chickpea salad brings additional protein and fiber while keeping things light and fresh.Bruschetta
Topped with tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze, bruschetta is perfect for scooping up that creamy goodness!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew can be easy, but avoiding common mistakes is crucial.
- Using stale ingredients: Always use fresh vegetables and beans. Stale or expired ingredients can ruin the flavor and texture of your stew.
- Neglecting seasoning: Don’t forget to taste as you go! Seasoning at the right moments enhances the overall flavor, so adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
- Overcooking greens: Greens should be wilted, not mushy. Add them towards the end of cooking to maintain their vibrant color and nutritional value.
- Skipping the thickening step: If you skip mixing starch with broth first, your stew may be too thin. Ensure you mix well to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Rushing the simmering time: Give your stew enough time to simmer. This allows flavors to meld together perfectly, creating a more delicious meal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the stew to cool completely before sealing it for storage.
Freezing Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of the container as the stew will expand when frozen.
Reheating Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew.
Can I use different beans?
Yes, feel free to substitute cannellini beans with other white beans like navy or great northern beans.
How can I make this stew spicier?
To add some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! The Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is naturally gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free starch.
What can I serve with the stew?
Pair this hearty stew with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Can I make this stews ahead of time?
Yes, this stew tastes even better the next day! You can prepare it in advance and reheat when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and makes an excellent meal prep option. Try it today!
Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew
Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is the ultimate comfort dish that combines rich flavors with wholesome ingredients for a satisfying meal. This plant-based stew is quick to prepare, taking only 25 minutes, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy lunches. Featuring protein-rich white beans, juicy cherry tomatoes, and vibrant greens, this dairy-free recipe not only delights the palate but also nourishes the body. Enjoy it over rice or quinoa, or savor it on its own for a heartwarming experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this easy one-pot meal is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1 small yellow onion
- 8 oz. cherry tomatoes
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 2 cups baby greens
- 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans
- 1/4 cup vegan cream cheese
- 1¼ cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon arrowroot starch
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, heat oil and sauté sliced onion for 3 minutes.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste; cook for an additional minute.
- Mix arrowroot starch with a splash of vegetable broth in a small bowl; add to the rest of the broth.
- Combine everything in the pan with drained white beans; simmer on low for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in vegan cream cheese and baby greens; cook until wilted.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice and season before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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