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Delicious Tuscan white beans served in a rustic bowl

Tuscan White Beans

A warm, comforting dish of Tuscan white beans flavored with garlic, rosemary, and lemon, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the beans
  • 2 cups dried cannellini beans Soak overnight for creamier beans.
  • 4 cups vegetable broth Use low-sodium broth to control salt.
  • 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Fresh, fruity olive oil adds warmth.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic gives it that extra flavor boost.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary Or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Freshly squeezed.
  • 1 handful fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
  • 1 loaf crusty bread For serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. If using dried cannellini beans, rinse and soak them overnight in a large bowl of water. Drain and rinse before cooking.
  2. If using canned beans, simply drain and rinse them.
Cooking the Beans
  1. In a large pot, combine soaked beans with vegetable broth and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender and creamy.
  3. If using canned beans, skip this step.
Sautéing Aromatics
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
  3. Add minced garlic and rosemary, cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
Combining and Creating Sauce
  1. If using cooked dried beans, drain them and reserve some cooking liquid.
  2. Add beans to the skillet with the sautéd onion and garlic.
  3. Pour in reserved cooking liquid or additional broth, then add salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Stir and let simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
  4. Ensure beans are coated in a glossy, saucy mixture.
Serving
  1. Remove from heat and stir in a little extra olive oil, if desired.
  2. Transfer beans to a shallow bowl, garnish with parsley, and serve warm with crusty bread.

Notes

For a flavor twist, stir in a handful of baby spinach or a drizzle of chili oil. Can be served with warm bread or cornbread.