Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, then this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is just what you need! Packed with hearty white beans, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and nutrient-rich greens, this stew is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Plus, it’s ready in just 25 minutes—so you can whip it up even on the craziest days!

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch or a filling dinner, everyone at your table will love the creamy goodness. So let’s dive into making this delicious vegan stew together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for those busy nights.
• Nutrient-packed: With white beans and greens, you’ll be fueling your body with plant-based protein and vitamins.
• Family-friendly: The rich flavors and creamy texture make this dish appealing to both kids and adults.
• Versatile options: Enjoy it on its own or over rice or quinoa for an extra filling meal.
• Meal prep friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and reheat for easy lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delightful stew, you’ll be using simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you need:

For the Stew Base:

• 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

To Thicken and Flavor:

• 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

For Garnish:

• 1 small lemon, juiced
• ¼ cup fresh basil, sliced

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced zucchini or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
• Change the greens: Spinach works great, but kale or Swiss chard would be delicious too!
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a little kick if you enjoy some heat.
• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of white beans, chickpeas are another great choice.

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 or olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced onion. Sauté for about 3 minutes until they start to become translucent. Then toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until softened. This step is key as sautéing brings out the natural sweetness of the onions and tomatoes.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Next, stir in the minced garlic along with chopped sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook while stirring constantly for about one minute until everything is fragrant and the tomato paste has darkened slightly. This builds depth of flavor that will make your stew irresistible!

Step 3: Thicken Your Broth

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the arrowroot starch with a splash of vegetable broth until smooth. This helps thicken our stew beautifully! Pour this mixture into the pan along with the rest of the vegetable broth.

Step 4: Combine Beans and Simmer

Add your rinsed cannellini beans to the pan. Let everything simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened and warmed through. This gentle simmer allows all those lovely flavors to meld together perfectly.

Step 5: Cream It Up!

Stir in your vegan cream cheese (or coconut/cashew cream) until it’s melted into the stew. Then fold in those gorgeous baby greens—you want them just wilted which takes about one minute. Lastly, add lemon juice along with salt and pepper to taste for that bright finishing touch.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle your creamy tomato white bean stew into bowls topped with fresh basil. Enjoy it over rice or quinoa, alongside toast, or simply on its own! Each bite is sure to warm your heart.

Now it’s time to dig in! I can’t wait for you to try this amazing recipe; I know it will quickly become one of your favorites too!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Making this stew is a breeze, but a few pro tips can elevate your cooking experience and the dish itself!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables like tomatoes and greens not only enhance flavor but also add vibrant colors and nutrients to your stew.
• Adjust the thickness: Depending on your preference, you can add more or less broth. For a thicker stew, use less broth or let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices like smoked paprika or cumin for an extra layer of flavor. These spices can give the stew a delightful depth and warmth.
• Make it ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat for an easy meal later in the week.
• Customize with vegetables: Add other veggies like zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition. This versatility allows you to tailor the dish to your taste.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is not only comforting but also beautifully versatile when it comes to serving! Here are some delightful ways to present this hearty dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of freshly sliced basil adds a burst of flavor and color that perfectly complements the stew’s richness.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving enhances the flavor profile and gives it a lovely sheen.
• Lemon zest: Adding a touch of lemon zest brightens up the dish and adds a refreshing note that balances the creamy elements.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the delicious broth, making each bite even more satisfying!
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich stew.
• Steamed broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and crunch while boosting the nutritional value of your meal.
• Rice pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs pairs wonderfully with this stew, making it a wholesome option for soaking up all that creamy goodness.

Enjoy your Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew as a filling meal on its own or alongside these delicious accompaniments!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is perfect for meal prep! It not only saves you time during your busy week but also allows the flavors to develop even more. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If possible, separate the stew into individual portions for easy access during the week.

Freezing

• Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• For best quality, avoid freezing if you’ve added greens, as they can become mushy upon thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stew in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also microwave in a microwave-safe dish, heating in short intervals and stirring between each until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew in advance?

Absolutely! This stew stores well in the fridge for a few days and can be made ahead of time. Just follow the storage instructions above to enjoy it later.

What pairs well with Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

This hearty stew is versatile! It pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I use different beans in this recipe?

Yes! While cannelini beans are recommended for their creamy texture, you can substitute with any white beans like navy beans or great northern beans.

How do I thicken my Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

If you find your stew needs thickening, simply mix a bit more arrowroot starch or cornstarch with water and stir it into the simmering stew until it reaches your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew as much as I do! It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that warms both body and soul. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s packed with flavor and nutrition. Don’t hesitate to try out this recipe—I’m sure you’ll love every comforting spoonful. Happy cooking!