Garlicky Beans with Greens (Printer View)

Creamy cannellini beans and hearty winter greens cooked with fragrant garlic and lemon zest.

# What you'll need:

→ Beans

01 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 - 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
03 - 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (or 3 cups cooked beans)
04 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
05 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
06 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Greens

07 - 6 cups winter greens (kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens), stems removed and chopped
08 - 1/2 cup low-sodium vegetable broth (or water)
09 - Zest and juice of 1 lemon

→ Garnish

10 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
11 - Extra olive oil, for drizzling

# Method:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
02 - Add cannellini beans, crushed red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir gently and cook for 2 to 3 minutes without mashing the beans.
03 - Incorporate chopped winter greens and vegetable broth. Cover skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until greens have wilted and softened.
04 - Remove lid and continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes to allow any excess liquid to evaporate.
05 - Stir in lemon zest and juice, then adjust seasoning to taste.
06 - Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and easy comfort food for cold weather
  • Can be made vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free
02 -
  • Substitute navy beans or great northern beans if cannellini are not available
  • If using packaged broth or canned beans check labels for allergens or cross-contamination
03 -
  • Add a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth
  • Serve beans on toasted sourdough or top with a fried egg for a heartier meal
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