Description
If you’re looking for a quick dinner idea that’s healthy, plant-based, and satisfying, this Easy Mediterranean White Beans and Greens recipe is a must-try. It brings together creamy white beans, fresh greens, garlic, tomatoes, and olive oil in one pan — creating an easy recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or nourishing lunches. It’s great for healthy snacks, light dinners, or meal prep. This dish is naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and easily made vegan.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes or 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, rinsed and drained
4 cups fresh spinach, kale, or Swiss chard
1 cup vegetable broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan or 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and cook until fragrant but not browned.
2. Add cherry or diced tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes until softened and juicy.
3. Stir in the drained white beans. Season with salt, pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Simmer for 8–10 minutes to let flavors combine.
4. Add the greens in batches, stirring to wilt them gently without overcooking.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Finish with grated Parmesan or a touch of lemon zest if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or over rice.
Notes
For a thicker texture, mash a few beans in the pan while cooking — this naturally thickens the broth.
To keep greens vibrant, add them only at the end and cook just until wilted.
Want extra depth? Add a splash of white wine when sautéing the tomatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg