This comforting and rustic dish of Braised White Beans with Greens is a one-pot wonder that’s naturally vegan, hearty, and deeply nourishing. Tender white beans simmer slowly with garlic, onions, and leafy greens in a flavorful vegetable broth, finished with a splash of acidity for balance. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a side, it’s a satisfying meal that’s both humble and elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a perfect blend of simplicity and depth. The creamy texture of the beans pairs beautifully with the earthy, slightly bitter greens, while the garlic and onions create a savory foundation. It’s a healthy, filling, and budget-friendly meal that works just as well on a cozy weeknight as it does at a casual dinner party. Plus, it’s versatile—great over grains, with crusty bread, or even on its own.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

olive oil
yellow onion, diced
garlic cloves, minced
red pepper flakes (optional)
northern white beans or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
vegetable broth
Tuscan kale or Swiss chard, stems removed and chopped
salt
ground black pepper
lemon juice or white wine vinegar
fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional)

Directions

Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add garlic and spice: Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Combine beans and broth: Add the drained white beans to the pan and stir to coat in the aromatics. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add the greens: Stir in the chopped kale or Swiss chard along with salt and pepper. Add herb sprigs if using. Partially cover the pot and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Reduce and finish: Remove the lid and continue to simmer for another 5–10 minutes, allowing the broth to reduce slightly and the greens to become tender.
Brighten and serve: Stir in lemon juice or vinegar, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm with crusty bread, rice, or grains.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: 280 kcal per serving

Variations

Add grains: Stir in cooked farro, quinoa, or brown rice to make it more filling.
Creamy version: Mash a portion of the beans or add a splash of coconut milk for added creaminess.
Smoky flavor: Use smoked paprika or add a dash of liquid smoke for depth.
Herb-forward: Enhance flavor with fresh dill, parsley, or basil added at the end.
Protein boost: Add pan-fried tofu or vegan sausage slices for a heartier main dish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if the mixture has thickened.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, soak and cook dried beans in advance. You’ll need about 3 cups of cooked beans.

What greens work best in this recipe?

Tuscan kale and Swiss chard are ideal, but spinach, collard greens, or mustard greens can also be used.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. It freezes well and maintains its texture and flavor when reheated.

How can I make it creamier?

Mash some of the beans or blend a portion of the mixture and stir it back in.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, carrots, celery, or leeks can be sautéed with the onions for added depth.

Does it work as a main dish?

Yes, it’s hearty enough to stand alone, especially when served with grains or crusty bread.

Is there a way to reduce the sodium?

Use low-sodium broth and rinse canned beans well to reduce overall salt content.

Can I make it spicy?

Increase red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños or chili oil for heat.

What’s the best broth to use?

A rich, homemade vegetable broth is ideal, but store-bought varieties work well too.

How long will it last in the fridge?

Up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Braised White Beans with Greens is a wholesome, comforting dish that brings out the best in humble ingredients. With its rich flavor, nourishing profile, and effortless preparation, it’s a staple you’ll want to revisit throughout the year. Serve it as a main or side, and enjoy a warming bowl of simplicity done right.

Braised White Beans with Greens

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Tender white beans slowly braised with garlic, onions, and leafy greens in a rich, savory broth—comforting, hearty, and naturally vegan, this one-pot dish is perfect as a main or a rustic side.

Author: Asma
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Braising
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Diet: Vegan

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the white beans and stir to coat. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
Add chopped greens, salt, and pepper. Cover partially and simmer gently for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Uncover and continue to simmer for another 5–10 minutes, or until greens are tender and broth is slightly reduced.
Finish with lemon juice or vinegar. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve warm, with crusty bread or over rice if desired.