authentic italian greens and beans recipe

The Best authentic italian greens and beans recipe

I’ve been making this authentic Italian greens and beans recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. I love how the flavors of the greens, beans, and tomatoes all come together to create a rich, savory taste experience.

My kids used to hate eating vegetables when they were younger, but this recipe made them love veggies in an instant. I think it’s because the greens are cooked down to a tender, almost creamy texture that makes them easy to eat. Plus, the beans add protein and fiber to make it a satisfying meal.

This recipe is also incredibly easy to make – just sauté some onions, garlic, and olive oil, then add in your greens, beans, and tomatoes. Let it simmer until the flavors have melded together and the greens are cooked through. It’s a true one-pot wonder!

I like to serve it with some crusty bread or over rice for a filling meal. The best part is that this recipe is so versatile – you can adjust the amount of greens to suit your taste preferences. If you like it more rustic, leave the stems on the greens for added texture.

If you prefer a smoother texture, remove the stems and chop the greens finely before adding them to the pot.

Authentic Italian Greens and Beans

Authentic Italian Greens and Beans

4.9 from 770 votes

This classic Italian comfort dish combines tender escarole or Swiss chard with creamy cannellini beans in a savory broth. It is a hearty, rustic meal that is both satisfying and nutritious, perfect for a simple weeknight dinner.

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

🥘Ingredients

For the Greens and Beans

1 large bunch escarole or Swiss chard, roughly chopped (about 8 cups)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
Salt and black pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
2Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
3Add the chopped greens to the pot in batches, stirring to wilt each addition before adding the next.
4Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until all greens are fully wilted and bright green.
5Pour in the broth and add the drained cannellini beans.
6Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, until the greens are tender and the flavors meld.
7Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8Ladle the greens and beans into bowls and top with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 5mg🧂Sodium: 650mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 12g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

For a more robust flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before serving. You can also substitute kale or spinach for the escarole if desired.

Watch Video Of How Authentic Italian Greens and Beans Works

This authentic Italian greens and beans recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or need a quick weeknight dinner solution.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to reheat leftovers in this recipe – just transfer it to an oven-safe dish and bake until warmed through at 350°F (175°C).

You can also store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to two months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Greens and Beans

Q: What type of greens should I use in this recipe?

For this authentic Italian greens and beans recipe, you can use either kale or collard greens – both work beautifully! If using kale, remove the stems and chop it finely before adding it to the pot. For collard greens, you can either remove the stems or leave them on for added texture.

Q: Can I use canned beans instead of cooking dried beans?

Sure! You can definitely use canned beans if you prefer – just drain and rinse them before adding them to the pot. However, if you have time to cook dried beans from scratch, they’ll be much better in this recipe.

Q: How long does this recipe take to make?

This authentic Italian greens and beans recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook – most of which is hands-off simmering time!

Q: Can I add other ingredients to customize this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is so versatile that you can add your favorite ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Some ideas include diced sausage or bacon for added smokiness, chopped bell peppers for extra crunch, or even some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

Q: Can I store leftovers in the fridge or freezer?

Yes! This recipe freezes beautifully – just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When reheating, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat on low heat until warmed through.

Similar Posts