White Bean and Basil Recipe

Discover a flavorful and versatile white bean and basil recipe that will become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. This dish combines the creamy texture of white beans with the aromatic freshness of basil, creating a hearty yet light meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward, delicious, and full of nutritious goodness.

Ingredients

The beauty of this white bean and basil recipe lies in its simplicity and wholesome ingredients. You'll need the following to get started:

2 cups of canned or cooked white beans (such as cannellini, navy, or Great Northern beans)
1 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
1 teaspoon of lemon zest
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: Red pepper flakes for a hint of heat
Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Preparation

Preparing this superb white bean and basil recipe is quite easy. Follow these steps for a delightful dish that will impress anyone at your table:

Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they become translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the Beans and Tomatoes:
Add the white beans and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir gently to combine and allow the mixture to cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the tomatoes begin to soften and the beans are heated through.
Season and Simmer:
Sprinkle in the lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for another 3-5 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together.
Add Fresh Basil:
Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the chopped basil leaves. The residual heat will wilt the basil slightly, preserving its vibrant color and fragrant aroma.
Serve:
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you desire some extra heat.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

This versatile white bean and basil recipe can be enjoyed in various ways and adapted to suit your dietary preferences and seasonal produce availability. Here are a few ideas:

As a Main Dish: Serve the white bean and basil mixture over a bed of whole grains such as quinoa, brown rice, or farro for a complete meal.
As a Side Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced and flavorful accompaniment.
Vegan Friendly: Top with nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to keep it vegan while adding a cheesy flavor.
Salad: Mix with fresh greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a summery salad.
Pasta Addition: Toss with your favorite cooked pasta for a quick and satisfying meal.

Guide Steps

Gather all ingredients.
Heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic.
Add white beans and cherry tomatoes, cook until softened.
Season with lemon zest, juice, salt, and pepper, and simmer.
Fold in fresh basil and serve warm.

FAQ

Can I use dried white beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans. Soak them overnight and cook according to the package instructions before using in this recipe.

What type of white beans should I use?
Cannellini, navy, or Great Northern beans are excellent choices for this recipe.

Can I substitute fresh basil with dried basil?
While fresh basil is recommended for its fragrant aroma and flavor, you can use dried basil in a pinch. Use about 1-2 teaspoons of dried basil.

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the basil and tomatoes may change. It is best enjoyed fresh.