Mediterranean White Bean Skillet: A Wholesome Delight

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Mediterranean White Bean Skillet is a nutritious and flavorful one-pan dish packed with tender potatoes, earthy fennel, garlicky greens, and hearty white beans simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Each bite is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors that will transport you straight to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean. This delightful dish not only pleases the palate but also nourishes the body, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal prep option.

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean White Bean Skillet

This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this dish:

It’s a healthy Mediterranean white bean recipe that’s rich in nutrients.
The combination of flavors creates a satisfying and comforting dish.
It’s a quick Mediterranean bean skillet dinner that can be prepared in just 40 minutes.
This skillet meal is packed with protein from the white beans, making it a filling choice.
It’s a one-pan Mediterranean white beans dish, perfect for easy cleanup.
Great for vegetarians, it fits well within a balanced diet.

Ingredients for Mediterranean White Bean Skillet

Gather these items:

1 bunch broccoli rabe (rapini), rinsed
1 large leek, sliced thinly into quarter moons
4 small fingerling potatoes, sliced into 1/8″ disks
1 small bulb fennel, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 large roasted red pepper, chopped
1 handful fresh spinach, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
15 ounces canned crushed or diced tomatoes (with juices)
15 ounces canned Great Northern or Cannellini beans
1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
1 tablespoon nonpareil capers
2 teaspoons Italian blend herb
Kosher salt, to taste
About 1/4 cup pecorino romano cheese, grated
Fresh parsley, minced

How to Make Mediterranean White Bean Skillet Step-by-Step

Step 1: Blanch the rinsed broccoli rabe in boiling water for 2 minutes to soften slightly. Immediately transfer it to a large bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Wring out excess water and let it dry on paper towels. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a 10-12 inch skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the sliced leeks and potato disks, cooking until the leeks are soft and translucent. Then add chopped fennel and minced garlic, sautéing just about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the pan, add a small splash of olive oil to the empty side. Spoon the tomato paste into the oil and sprinkle smoked paprika on top. Stir continuously until a fragrant paste forms, then blend it into the vegetables.
Step 4: Stir in canned tomatoes with juices, white beans, chopped roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, Italian herbs, and a generous pinch of kosher salt. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors.
Step 5: Reduce heat to medium-low so the tomato mixture simmers gently without sputtering. Cook uncovered for about 15 minutes or until the potato slices are tender enough to be easily crushed in half with a fork.
Step 6: Stir chopped broccoli rabe and fresh spinach into the skillet. Cook just a few minutes until the spinach wilts and greens are heated through.
Step 7: Sprinkle grated pecorino romano cheese and minced fresh parsley over the skillet. Taste and adjust salt as needed to enhance flavors. Serve with extra cheese and parsley on the side for additional garnish.

Mediterranean White Bean Skillet: A Wholesome Delight - Mediterranean White Bean Skillet - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Mediterranean White Bean Skillet

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.
Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld.
This dish is a fantastic vegetarian Mediterranean white bean skillet option that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Best Ways to Serve Mediterranean White Bean Skillet

Here are a few serving ideas:

Pair it with crusty bread for a delightful meal.
Serve alongside a fresh salad for a balanced dinner.
This is also a great Mediterranean-style bean skillet dish to accompany grilled meats for a heartier option.

How to Store and Reheat Mediterranean White Bean Skillet

To store, let the dish cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep and easy Mediterranean bean meal ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mediterranean White Bean Skillet

What’s the secret to perfect Mediterranean White Bean Skillet?

The secret lies in balancing the flavors—using fresh ingredients and allowing the dish to simmer helps enhance the taste. Try adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness!

Can I make Mediterranean White Bean Skillet ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just reheat gently before serving. It’s a great one-pan Mediterranean white beans dish for entertaining!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Mediterranean White Bean Skillet?

Be cautious not to overcook the vegetables; they should be tender yet retain some crunch. Also, watch the salt, especially if you’re using canned beans that are already salted.

Variations of Mediterranean White Bean Skillet You Can Try

Here are some tasty variations:

Swap the broccoli rabe for kale or Swiss chard for a different green.
Add in cooked quinoa for an extra protein boost.
Incorporate different beans for variety, such as black beans or kidney beans.

This healthy Mediterranean white bean recipe is versatile and can be customized to fit your preferences!

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For more delicious recipes, check out our Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken or Holiday Roasted Vegetables Recipe. If you’re looking for a comforting dessert, try our Apple Bundt Cake Recipe. For more information on the health benefits of beans, visit Healthline (rel=”nofollow”).