italian cannellini beans recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best italian cannellini beans recipe

I have been making this Italian cannellini beans recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. My kids love it, and I love how easy it is to prepare. This recipe comes from my mother-in-law, who learned it from her Italian grandmother.

The dish is simple yet flavorful, with a rich texture that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. When I cook cannellini beans, I feel like I’m bringing a taste of Italy into our home. The beans are creamy and slightly sweet, with a hint of garlic and herbs that complements the tanginess of the tomatoes.

My family always asks for seconds, and I never have leftovers because they’re so good. The best part is that this recipe is incredibly healthy, with protein-rich beans and veggies that are packed with fiber and vitamins. We enjoy it as a side dish or add it to pasta or rice for a filling meal.

I’ve also made it in advance and reheated it for a quick lunch or snack. The cannellini beans are so versatile that you can serve them at any time of day or night. My kids even request this dish when they’re feeling under the weather, and it always seems to help them feel better.

As for me, I love how easy it is to make this recipe in bulk and freeze it for later use. This way, I can enjoy the flavors of Italy all year round without any fuss.

Italian Cannellini Beans

4.9 from 598 votes

This classic Italian dish features tender cannellini beans simmered in a savory tomato and herb sauce. It’s a comforting and flavorful meal that pairs well with crusty bread or pasta.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
2 cups vegetable broth
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2Add onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3Add garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
4Add diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, rosemary, thyme, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and vegetable broth.
5Stir well to combine.
6Bring the mixture to a boil.
7Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
8Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
9The beans should be tender and the flavors well combined.
10Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
11If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
12Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Can opener

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 10g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For added flavor, you can add a slice of pancetta or bacon, cooked until crispy, to the pot along with the onions. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend a portion of the beans before adding them to the pot.

Watch Video Of How Italian Cannellini Beans Works

This Italian cannellini beans recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it’s easy to make in bulk and freeze for later use.

We enjoy it as a side dish or add it to pasta or rice for a filling meal.

My kids even request this dish when they’re feeling under the weather, and it always seems to help them feel better.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Cannellini Beans

Q: What are cannellini beans?

Cannellini beans are a type of white bean that’s commonly used in Italian cooking. They have a mild flavor and a creamy texture that makes them perfect for soups, stews, and side dishes.

Q: How do I cook cannellini beans?

To cook cannellini beans, you’ll need to soak them overnight in water before boiling them until they’re tender. You can also use canned cannellini beans as a substitute.

Q: What’s the best way to season cannellini beans?

The key to seasoning cannellini beans is to use garlic, herbs like parsley and basil, and olive oil as the base flavors. You can then add other seasonings like lemon juice or red pepper flakes to taste.

Q: Can I make cannellini beans in advance?

Yes, you can make cannellini beans ahead of time by cooking them until they’re tender and then refrigerating or freezing them for later use.

Q: How do I serve cannellini beans?

Cannellini beans can be served as a side dish on their own or added to pasta, rice, or other dishes for extra protein and fiber.

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