Garlicky Beans with Greens

Creamy cannellini beans simmered with fragrant garlic and tossed with hearty winter greens for a nourishing rustic dish perfect for chilly days.

I first made these garlicky beans on a blustery winter evening and it instantly became a family favorite. The combination of creamy beans and leafy greens always feels grounding and satisfying.

Ingredients

• Beans: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 4 garlic cloves (thinly sliced), 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans (drained and rinsed) or 3 cups cooked beans, 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional), 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• Greens: 6 cups winter greens (such as kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens) tough stems removed and leaves chopped, 1/2 cup low-sodium vegetable broth (or water), zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional), extra olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions

Sauté Garlic:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 2 minutes until fragrant and just beginning to turn golden.

Add Beans:

Stir in the cannellini beans, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 3 minutes, stirring gently to avoid smashing the beans.

Add Greens:

Add the chopped greens and vegetable broth. Cover and cook for 5 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until greens are wilted and tender.

Reduce Liquid:

Remove the lid and cook for another 2 3 minutes, allowing any excess liquid to evaporate.

Add Lemon:

Stir in lemon zest and juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve:

Transfer to plates or a serving bowl, garnish with parsley and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve warm.

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This recipe brings us together around the table especially when the weather outside is cold. Even picky eaters in our family ask for second helpings.

Required Tools

Large skillet with lid, chefs knife, cutting board, wooden spoon

Allergen Information

Contains none of the major allergens. Check packaged items for ingredient safety if needed.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 210, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 32 g, Protein: 9 g

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Enjoy these beans warm for the best flavor and comfort. They are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side with roasted meats.

Kitchen Tips & Answers

→ What type of beans work best for this dish?

Cannellini beans are preferred for their creamy texture, but navy or great northern beans can be used as substitutes without altering the flavor significantly.

→ Can other greens be used in place of winter greens?

Yes, sturdy leafy greens like kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens work well as they hold up to cooking and add a hearty texture.

→ How is the garlic prepared to maximize flavor?

Garlic is thinly sliced and sautéed gently in olive oil just until fragrant and golden to infuse the dish with rich aroma without bitterness.

→ What enhances the dish’s brightness and balance?

Lemon zest and juice are stirred in at the end to provide a fresh, tangy contrast that lifts the richness of the beans and greens.

→ Is this dish suitable for special diets?

Yes, it is naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be made vegan when using vegetable broth.