Beans and Greens Recipe (Italian-Style)
This quick and cozy Italian Beans and Greens Recipe features tender escarole and creamy white beans simmered in garlic and olive oil. It’s hearty, healthy, and ready in just 20 minutes—perfect with crusty bread for soaking up every last drop!
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 5 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves chopped
- 1 pound escarole chopped
- 3 cups low-salt chicken broth
- 1 15-ounce can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 1-ounce piece Parmesan (chunk)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Freshly grated parmigiano cheese for serving
- Crusty ciabatta bread for serving
Instructions
- Prepare escarole: chop off the bottom root then cut the leaves roughly. Soak in cold water and either use a salad spinner or a large kitchen towel to dry. Cut out the hard steam in the middle of the leaf and discard. Chop escarole and set aside until ready to use.
- Drain bean liquid and rinse beans. Set aside.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and saute until fragrant, about 15 seconds.
- Add the escarole and saute until wilted, about 2 minutes. Add a pinch of salt. Add the chicken broth, beans, remaining olive oil, and parmigiano cheese chunk. Cover and simmer until the beans are heated through, about 5-8 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Add grated parmigiano cheese and serve with crusty bread.
Notes
- Add Parmigiano: A small chunk of Parmesan cheese infuses the broth with rich, savory flavor.
- Trim the Escarole: Remove the tough inner stem to reduce bitterness and ensure tender leaves.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Escarole often hides dirt—soak and swish in cold water until completely clean.
- Balance the Bitterness: Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar to mellow sharp flavors.
Nutrition
Calories: 309kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 14g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 421mg | Potassium: 521mg | Fiber: 9g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 2513IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 217mg | Iron: 4mg
