Save Creamy cannellini beans simmered with fragrant garlic and tossed with hearty winter greens for a nourishing rustic dish perfect for chilly days.
As the weather turns colder I always crave comforting bowls of beans and greens. This recipe is my go-to for a quick nourishing dinner that feels rustic yet special especially when I drizzle it with extra olive oil and sprinkle fresh parsley on top.
Ingredients
- Beans: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 4 garlic cloves (thinly sliced), 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans (drained and rinsed or 3 cups cooked beans), 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional), 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Greens: 6 cups winter greens (such as kale Swiss chard or collard greens, tough stems removed and leaves chopped), 1/2 cup low-sodium vegetable broth (or water), Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional), Extra olive oil (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and just beginning to turn golden.
- Add Beans and Season:
- Stir in the cannellini beans red pepper flakes salt and black pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes stirring gently to avoid smashing the beans.
- Add Greens:
- Add the chopped greens and vegetable broth. Cover and cook for 5–7 minutes stirring occasionally until greens are wilted and tender.
- Evaporate Liquid:
- Remove the lid and cook for another 2–3 minutes allowing any excess liquid to evaporate.
- Lemon Zest and Juice:
- Stir in lemon zest and juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve:
- Transfer to plates or a serving bowl garnish with parsley and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve warm.
Save My family loves this dish especially on chilly evenings when we gather in the kitchen. The kids get involved by tearing greens and everyone enjoys customizing their bowls with extra lemon or parsley.
Required Tools
Large skillet with lid Chefs knife Cutting board Wooden spoon
Allergen Information
Contains none of the major allergens. If using packaged broth or canned beans check labels for potential allergens or cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 210 Total Fat: 6 g Carbohydrates: 32 g Protein: 9 g per serving
Save This garlicky beans and winter greens recipe brings comfort and flavor to your table. Enjoy simplicity and warmth in every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of beans work best for this dish?
Cannellini beans are ideal due to their creamy texture, but navy or great northern beans make excellent substitutes.
- → Can I use other greens instead of winter greens?
Yes, kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens are perfect choices for their hearty texture and flavor.
- → How do I avoid over-softening the beans during cooking?
Stir gently and cook beans briefly after adding to maintain their shape while warming through.
- → What enhances the flavor of this dish?
Fresh garlic sautéed until fragrant and lemon zest and juice added at the end brighten and deepen the overall taste.
- → What are some serving suggestions?
Serve warm with toasted sourdough or as a side to roasted meats; adding a poached or fried egg can increase heartiness.