Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the soul, I can’t wait for you to try this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew! It’s one of those recipes that never fails to bring smiles around the dinner table. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this stew is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make—ready in just 25 minutes!

What makes this stew special is not only its comforting taste but also the wholesome ingredients packed inside. You’ll find protein-rich white beans and vibrant cherry tomatoes, all harmonizing beautifully with nutrient-dense greens. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a healthy meal without sacrificing flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This stew comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic days.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with protein and nutrients, it’s a meal that nourishes your body and soul.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this flavorful dish, making it great for family dinners.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare it in advance and reheat it for a quick lunch or dinner.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here are some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create this delicious Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew. You probably have most of them in your pantry already!

• 1 small yellow onion, sliced
• 8 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, or other white beans of choice, drained and rinsed
• 1¼ cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon arrowroot starch, tapioca starch, or cornstarch
• 2 cups baby greens, like baby arugula or spinach
• ¼ cup vegan cream cheese (you can also replace with coconut cream or cashew cream)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 small lemon, juiced
• ¼ cup fresh basil, sliced, to garnish

Variations

One of the best aspects of this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is how flexible it is! Feel free to play around with the ingredients based on what you have on hand.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Swap the Greens: Use kale or Swiss chard instead of baby greens for a different flavor and texture.
• Change Up the Beans: Try using different types of beans such as navy beans or chickpeas for variety.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.

How to Make Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil. Once warmed up, toss in your sliced onion. Sauté for about three minutes until they become translucent. Next, add in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another five minutes. This step is important because cooking these veggies brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Now it’s time to kick up the flavor! Stir in the minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Cook while stirring constantly for about one minute until fragrant. The tomato paste will deepen its color during this time, enhancing the overall richness of your stew.

Step 3: Prepare the Broth Mixture

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the arrowroot starch with a splash of vegetable broth until smooth. Then mix this back into the remaining broth. This technique helps thicken your stew perfectly without any lumps!

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

Pour your broth mixture into the pan along with the rinsed cannellini beans. Let everything simmer on low heat for about five minutes until slightly thickened and heated through. This step allows all those beautiful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Finish Off Your Stew

Stir in the vegan cream cheese until melted into your stew—it adds such a lovely creaminess! Fold in the baby greens and cook just until wilted—about one minute should do it. Finally, stir in fresh lemon juice; this brightens up all those rich flavors beautifully! Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste before topping with fresh basil.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

You can serve this delicious Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew over rice or quinoa, alongside some crusty bread, or simply enjoy it on its own! Each spoonful is sure to comfort you as you savor every last bite.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Creating the perfect Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is all about those little tweaks that make a big difference. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your stew turns out absolutely delicious!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce enhances the flavor and nutritional value of your stew, making each bite a delight for your taste buds.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so be sure to taste as you go. This allows you to balance flavors and create a dish that’s perfectly suited to your preferences.

• Experiment with greens: While baby arugula and spinach are great choices, feel free to try kale or Swiss chard for a heartier texture and additional nutrients.

• Make it spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix during cooking for an extra kick that complements the creamy base.

• Store leftovers properly: Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. This helps maintain freshness and makes reheating easier for future meals.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Serving your Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew can turn this simple dish into a show-stopping meal! Here are some delightful ideas for presentation.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: Sliced fresh basil adds not only color but also a burst of aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes.
• Nutritional yeast: Sprinkling some nutritional yeast on top provides a cheesy flavor without any dairy, making it perfect for vegan diets.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado enhances the texture while adding healthy fats, making each spoonful even more indulgent.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A loaf of freshly baked crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich stew, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing complements the stew well while adding extra protein and fiber.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and crunch, providing a satisfying contrast to the creamy stew.
• Green salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the stew and adds freshness to your meal.

With these serving ideas in mind, you are ready to enjoy your comforting bowl of Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew in style! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is perfect for meal prep! It stores beautifully, making it an ideal option for busy weekdays or cozy weekends. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stew to cool completely before refrigerating.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the stew cool completely before freezing.
• Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best flavor and texture, consume within one month.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the defrost function on your microwave.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Add a splash of vegetable broth if it appears too thick upon reheating.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries that might help you out.

Can I make Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew with different beans?

Absolutely! While cannelini beans are fantastic, you can substitute them with any white beans like navy beans or great northern beans. The stew will still be delicious!

How long does Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this stew will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Enjoy it as a quick lunch or dinner option!

What can I serve with Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

This hearty stew pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, crusty bread, or even a fresh salad. It’s versatile enough to complement your favorite sides!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew as much as I do! It’s a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep staple, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Don’t hesitate to share your experience and tag me; I’d love to see how your stew turns out!