The rich and comforting flavors of this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew make the perfect easy lunch or dinner. This dairy-free and plant-based recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients, like protein-packed white beans, cherry tomatoes, and nutrient-dense greens. Learn how to make this easy and satisfying vegan stew in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This stew can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with white beans, greens, and tomatoes, it’s a healthy choice that provides essential nutrients.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, quinoa, or simply on its own for a filling meal.
- Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of creamy vegan cheese and fresh basil creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Perfect for those following a plant-based diet or anyone looking to reduce dairy intake without sacrificing taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Medium saucepan: Essential for cooking the stew evenly without burns or sticking.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
Fresh Vegetables
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced
- 8 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
Flavor Enhancers
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Protein Source
- 1 (15 oz) can cannelini beans, or other white beans of choice, drained and rinsed
Broth Base
- 1¼ cup vegetable broth
Thickening Agent
- 1 tablespoon arrowroot starch, tapioca starch, or cornstarch
Leafy Greens
- 2 cups baby greens, like baby arugula or spinach
Creaminess Factor
- ¼ cup vegan cream cheese (you can replace it with coconut cream or cashew cream)
Seasonings & Garnishes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small lemon, juiced
- ¼ cup fresh basil, sliced, to garnish
How to Make Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew
Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Tomatoes
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil.
1. Add the sliced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent.
2. Incorporate the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes until softened, stirring frequently.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste
Add the minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste to the pan.
1. Cook while stirring constantly for one minute until fragrant and the tomato paste darkens in color.
Step 3: Prepare the Broth Mixture
In a separate small bowl:
1. Whisk together the arrowroot starch with a splash of vegetable broth.
2. Mix the slurry back into the remaining broth.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
Pour the prepared broth mixture into the pan along with the drained white beans.
1. Allow it to simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Stir in Creaminess
Stir in the vegan cream cheese until melted into the stew.
1. Mix in your baby greens and cook until wilted (about 1 minute).
2. Squeeze in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve Your Stew
Top your stew with fresh basil before serving.
Enjoy it over rice, quinoa, greens, with toast, or all on its own!
This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew not only satisfies hunger but also delights your taste buds!
How to Serve Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew
Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Over Rice
- Serve the stew over steamed rice for a hearty meal. The rice absorbs the creamy broth, making each bite flavorful.
With Quinoa
- Pair the stew with quinoa for a protein-packed option. Quinoa adds a nutty flavor and complements the stew’s texture perfectly.
On Toast
- Spoon the stew onto toasted bread or crostini for a delightful appetizer. This is a great way to enjoy it as a snack or light meal.
With Fresh Greens
- Serve the stew on a bed of mixed greens. The freshness of the greens balances the richness of the stew.
In a Bowl
- Enjoy it in a bowl on its own. This is perfect for those cozy nights when you want something comforting and warm.
Topped with Basil
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. This adds an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor profile.
How to Perfect Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew
To make your Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew even more delightful, consider these tips for perfection.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate the flavor of your stew significantly.
- Adjust seasoning: Don’t shy away from tasting as you go; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Experiment with spices: Adding spices like paprika or cumin can give your stew an extra kick and depth of flavor.
- Let it simmer longer: Allowing the stew to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes can deepen the flavors further.
- Add cream alternatives gradually: Stir in vegan cream cheese slowly to control the creaminess level you desire.
- Serve hot: For best results, always serve your stew hot to fully enjoy its rich, comforting flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew
Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some ideal options:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy stew.
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich stew.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add color and nutrition alongside your meal.
- Couscous: Fluffy couscous also makes an excellent base, soaking up all the delicious broth.
- Baked Potatoes: Serve baked potatoes topped with some of the stew for a filling combination.
- Pita Chips: Crunchy pita chips offer a fun way to enjoy your creamy tomato white bean stew while adding texture.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs beautifully, balancing out savory flavors in your dish.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance and bright green color to your plate.
These sides not only complement but also enhance your experience with Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew can be simple, but there are a few pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Skipping the seasoning – Not adding enough salt and pepper can leave your stew bland. Always taste as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
- Overcooking the greens – Adding greens too early can lead to mushy texture. Stir them in at the end and cook just until wilted for the best results.
- Using canned beans without rinsing – Canned beans can have excess sodium and a metallic taste. Drain and rinse them thoroughly before adding them to your stew.
- Neglecting fresh herbs – Skipping fresh basil as a garnish removes a layer of flavor. Always finish your dish with fresh herbs for an uplifting touch.
- Not adjusting for thickness – If the stew is too thick, it can be hard to enjoy. Add more vegetable broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Allow the stew to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.
Reheating Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring every minute until hot.
- Stovetop – Warm on low heat, stirring frequently until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about making Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew.
Can I use different beans in this stew?
You can definitely swap out cannellini beans for other white beans like great northern or navy beans. Each will bring its unique flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have vegan cream cheese?
If you don’t have vegan cream cheese, you can use coconut cream or cashew cream as a substitute to keep it creamy and delicious.
How do I make this stew spicier?
To add heat, include crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Making it ahead allows flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it properly according to our storage instructions.
What should I serve with this stew?
This creamy tomato white bean stew pairs well with rice, quinoa, crusty bread, or even enjoyed on its own!
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or spices based on your preferences. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this stew is sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try today!
Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew
Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is the ultimate comfort food that brings together rich, hearty flavors in a delightful plant-based dish. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this easy-to-make vegan stew combines creamy tomatoes with protein-packed white beans, fresh cherry tomatoes, and nutritious leafy greens. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a warm and satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor and goodness. Whether served over rice or enjoyed on its own, this stew is a fantastic way to nourish your body while delighting your taste buds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1 small yellow onion
- 8 oz. cherry tomatoes
- 4 garlic cloves
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans
- 1¼ cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon arrowroot starch
- 2 cups baby greens
- ¼ cup vegan cream cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté sliced onion in oil until translucent (3 minutes). Add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened (5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Cook until fragrant (1 minute).
- Whisk arrowroot starch with a splash of vegetable broth; mix into remaining broth.
- Pour broth mixture into the pan with drained beans. Simmer on low for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Mix in vegan cream cheese and baby greens until wilted. Season with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Serve topped with fresh basil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
