Italian Bean & Kale (Printable)

Tender beans and kale combine with Italian herbs for a warming, nutritious main.

# Components:

→ 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 (about 6 cups), stems removed and chopped

→ 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 needed
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

# Directions:

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

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Full of wholesome vegetables and plant-based protein
  • Simple ingredients create rich, classic Italian flavor
02 -
  • Kale softens and absorbs flavor as it cooks
  • This stew tastes even better the next day as flavors develop
03 -
  • Add a peeled and diced potato with the carrots for a heartier meal
  • Keep leftovers refrigerated and enjoy within three days for best flavor
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