Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, then this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is just the ticket! With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this stew is not only delicious but also super easy to whip up. It’s one of those recipes I turn to on busy weeknights or when I want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s perfect for family gatherings or a simple lunch with friends!

What makes this stew extra special is how wholesome it is. Packed with protein-rich white beans, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and nutrient-dense greens, it’s a dish you can feel good about serving. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, this stew fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Family-Friendly: This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is a hit with both kids and adults, making mealtime stress-free.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare this stew ahead of time and enjoy reheating it throughout the week!
• Nutrient-Packed: With wholesome ingredients, this stew offers plenty of vitamins and minerals to keep you feeling great.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew. These are items that might already be in your pantry or fridge, making this recipe even more convenient!

For the Stew

• 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 (or substitute 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 things about this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is how flexible it is! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an exciting kick!
• Change the Greens: Feel free to use kale or Swiss chard instead of baby greens for a different flavor profile.
• Switch the Beans: Use any type of white beans you prefer; navy beans or great northern beans work wonderfully too!

How to Make Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of avocado oil. Toss in the sliced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent. This step is crucial as it brings out the sweetness of the onion. Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook them for another 5 minutes until they soften beautifully. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Now it’s time to elevate those flavors! Add minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste into the pan. Stir constantly for about one minute until everything becomes fragrant and the tomato paste darkens slightly. This step deepens the flavor base of our stew.

Step 3: Thicken the Broth

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the arrowroot starch with a splash of vegetable broth until smooth. This will help thicken our stew perfectly! Pour this mixture into the pan along with the remaining vegetable broth. Add in your rinsed cannellini beans next.

Step 4: Simmer Until Thickened

Bring everything to a low simmer and allow it to cook for about 5 minutes. This gives all those wonderful flavors time to mingle while thickening up nicely.

Step 5: Make it Creamy

Stir in the vegan cream cheese until it melts into the stew—this is where all that creamy goodness comes from! Then mix in your baby greens and let them wilt down for about one minute before squeezing in some fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Top your steaming hot stew with freshly sliced basil before serving. Enjoy it over rice, quinoa, greens, or simply on its own—there’s no wrong way to savor this delicious meal!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Making this stew is not only easy but also a fantastic way to enjoy wholesome ingredients. Here are some tips to take your stew to the next level!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cherry tomatoes and leafy greens enhance the flavors and nutritional value of the stew. They provide a vibrant taste that dried or canned options just can’t match.

• Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, add more arrowroot starch mixed with broth until you reach your desired consistency. This helps create a creamy texture without compromising flavor.

• Experiment with Greens: While baby arugula and spinach are delicious, feel free to substitute with kale or Swiss chard for added heartiness. Different greens bring unique flavors and textures to the dish.

• Make It Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch, store it in the fridge, and enjoy it throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.

• Add Extra Protein: For an additional protein boost, consider including some chickpeas or lentils. They blend wonderfully with the other ingredients while keeping it completely plant-based.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Serving this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is an opportunity to showcase its delightful flavors and comforting nature. Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the aromatic experience of each spoonful.
• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of chili flakes can elevate the flavor profile and add excitement to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: Serve your stew alongside warm, crusty bread for dipping. The bread’s texture complements the creamy stew beautifully.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing adds freshness and balances out the richness of the stew.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables provide a satisfying crunch and extra nutrients that pair perfectly with the creamy stew.
• Simple Green Salad: A refreshing green salad drizzled with vinaigrette can lighten up your meal while adding vibrant colors to your plate.

With these serving suggestions, your Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew will not only be delicious but also visually appealing and satisfying! Enjoy every warming bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, homemade meals throughout the week. It stores well and can easily be reheated, making it a convenient choice for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stew to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway through cooking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I use other types of beans in this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

Absolutely! While cannellini beans are a great choice for their creaminess, you can substitute with any white beans like navy beans or great northern beans.

How can I make this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew spicier?

For added heat, consider stirring in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking. You can adjust the spice level to your liking!

Is this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew gluten-free?

Yes, this stew is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any vegetable broth you use is labeled gluten-free as well.

Can I add more vegetables to this stew?

Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just sauté them along with the onions for extra flavor and nutrition.

How long does it take to make this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

This comforting stew comes together in just 25 minutes from start to finish!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! It’s not only quick and easy but also loaded with wholesome ingredients that make it a nourishing choice for any meal. Enjoy making it and feel free to share your experience; I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Happy cooking!

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