Name: Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 yellow onion, chopped (or use white onions or shallots); 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (heirloom tomatoes work too); 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh or frozen); 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, dry-packed; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini preferred); 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon arrowroot, tapioca, or cornstarch; 2 cups baby greens (spinach, kale, or arugula); 4 oz vegan cream cheese (optional); 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Fresh basil, for garnish

If you’re on the lookout for a dish that embodies comfort and nourishment in a bowl, look no further than this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew. This delightful stew is not only rich in flavor but also incredibly wholesome, making it a fantastic option for those who love plant-based meals. The combination of protein-rich white beans, juicy cherry tomatoes, and vibrant greens creates a symphony of textures and tastes, all bound together in a creamy, dreamy sauce. Best of all, this recipe can be whipped up in just 25 minutes, making it a quick go-to for busy weeknights.

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew stands out not only for its tantalizing flavor but also for its health benefits. With ingredients like white beans that pack a protein punch, you’ll feel satisfied and energized without the heaviness that often accompanies hearty meals. The addition of nutrient-rich greens offers a boost of vitamins, while the comforting warmth of the tomatoes and spices will wrap you in cozy goodness. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep for the week, this stew is versatile and easy to customize to suit your taste.

So, if you’re ready to indulge in a bowl of creamy goodness that’s both simple and satisfying, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking. Trust me; you’ll want to make this creamy tomato white bean stew time and time again!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Ready in just 25 minutes – perfect for busy schedules!
Only one pan is needed, making cleanup a breeze.
Vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free, catering to various dietary needs.
Creamy and filling, with a healthy dose of plant protein.
Each serving contains only 287 calories, making it a guilt-free meal.
Ideal for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners that satisfy and nourish.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this delicious recipe, it’s crucial to prep your kitchen so you can cook efficiently. First, gather all your ingredients: you’ll want them ready to go to streamline the cooking process. A sturdy cutting board and sharp knife will help you quickly chop the onion, tomatoes, and garlic.

For cooking, you’ll need a medium saucepan—this will be your one-pan wonder for making this stew. Ensure that you have measuring cups and spoons on hand for accurate ingredient measurements. If you have a whisk, grab that too since you will be using it to combine the arrowroot or cornstarch with the broth. Having everything organized will allow you to focus on the fun part—creating a delightful meal!

Ingredients

1 yellow onion, chopped (or use white onions or shallots)
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (heirloom tomatoes work too)
3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh or frozen)
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, dry-packed
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini preferred)
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 tablespoon arrowroot, tapioca, or cornstarch
2 cups baby greens (spinach, kale, or arugula)
4 oz vegan cream cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating a splash of olive oil in your medium saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it’s fragrant and translucent. Following this, add your halved cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook them until they soften, which should take around 5 minutes. This step is essential as it builds the base flavor of your stew!

Step 2: Add the Aromatics

After your tomatoes have softened, it’s time to introduce the fragrant elements. Add the minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste into the pan. Cook these for about 1 minute, stirring continuously until the aromatic scents fill your kitchen, and you’ll notice the tomato paste deepening in color. This will add a rich umami flavor to your stew.

Step 3: Simmer the Beans

Next, grab a small bowl and mix your starch (arrowroot, tapioca, or cornstarch) with a splash of the vegetable broth to create a slurry. Pour this mixture into the saucepan alongside the remaining broth and your canned white beans, which you’ve rinsed and drained. Allow everything to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the stew thickens slightly and the flavors meld into one another.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Take your vegan cream cheese and stir it into the simmering stew until it melts and incorporates into the warm mixture. The cream cheese will lend a rich and creamy texture to your dish. Finally, gently add in your chosen baby greens, stirring until they just wilt into the stew—this should only take about a minute. To finish off, add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste, rounding out the flavor.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish

Now, it’s time to enjoy your culinary masterpiece! Ladle the creamy tomato white bean stew into bowls. For a touch of freshness and color, garnish with fresh basil leaves. This stew is perfect when served with crusty bread, fluffy rice, or quinoa!

Variations

Protein: Swap out white beans for chickpeas or lentils for a different texture and flavor.
Vegetables: Add diced zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
Spices: Mix in some cumin or smoked paprika for a subtler depth of flavor.

Cooking Notes

Ensure you’re using low-sodium vegetable broth to keep the flavors balanced and fresh.
Feel free to experiment with different types of greens—collard greens or Swiss chard can be excellent alternatives.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your stew with slices of fresh, crusty bread for dipping and savoring every bite.
Serve it over a bed of rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.

Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; it tastes even better the next day!
Freeze portions for a quick meal option—just reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 287 per serving (for half the recipe)
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 460mg

FAQs

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes! This stew is great for meal prep and can be made in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge or freeze for later use.

What can I use instead of vegan cream cheese?

If you prefer, you can substitute it with coconut cream or cashew cream for a creamier texture.

Is this recipe customizable?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out vegetables, beans, or spices according to your taste preferences.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?

Yes, but you’ll need to soak and cook dried beans beforehand according to the package instructions.

Conclusion

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is not only a breeze to make, but it’s also a nutritious, delicious option to warm you up any time of year. With its incredibly flavorful ingredients and the ease of preparation, it’s bound to become a family favorite in no time. The rich, creamy texture combined with the protein from the beans and the vibrant taste of fresh tomatoes makes for a meal that is satisfying and guilt-free. Once you try it, I encourage you to come back and share your thoughts or your personal twists on this stew. Happy cooking!