Italian Bean & Kale Hearty (Print version)

A warm, nutritious blend of beans, kale, and Italian herbs simmered to comfort and satisfy.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 - 1 large yellow onion, diced
03 - 2 medium carrots, diced
04 - 2 celery stalks, diced
05 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
06 - 1 large bunch kale, stems removed, chopped (about 6 cups)

→ Beans & Tomatoes

07 - 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
08 - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices

→ Liquids & Seasonings

09 - 4 cups vegetable broth (gluten-free if necessary)
10 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
11 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
12 - ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish (optional)

14 - Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (omit for vegan)
15 - Chopped fresh parsley

# How to Make:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 7 minutes.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Incorporate chopped kale, stirring occasionally until slightly wilted, approximately 2 minutes.
04 - Add cannellini beans, diced tomatoes with juices, vegetable broth, dried oregano, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
05 - Bring mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
06 - Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
07 - Ladle stew into bowls and garnish with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.

# Expert tips:

01 -
  • Comforting and nutritious main dish
  • Easy to make with pantry staples
02 -
  • Cannellini beans add protein and creaminess without dairy
  • Kale holds up well to simmering and keeps vibrant color in this stew
03 -
  • For extra creaminess, mash a few beans before simmering
  • Add a splash of good olive oil just before serving for more flavor
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