Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy dinner recipe that's bursting with flavor? Look no further! This Camellia white bean recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and satisfies even the most discerning palates. Forget complicated cooking; this dish is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly delicious and satisfying meal. It's the perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a healthy alternative to processed foods. Ready to dive in?
Ingredients: You'll only need a few pantry staples!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained (or 1 ½ cups cooked Camellia white beans)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions: A simple step-by-step guide
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the beans and tomatoes: Add the rinsed and drained cannellini beans (or cooked Camellia white beans), diced tomatoes (undrained), vegetable broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the saucepan.
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Simmer to perfection: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This simple dish is perfect on its own or served with crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results
- For a smoother texture: Use an immersion blender to partially puree the beans before serving for a creamier consistency.
- Boost the flavor: Add a bay leaf while simmering for an enhanced depth of flavor; remove before serving.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make it vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can easily make it vegan by ensuring your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly.
Variations: Explore endless possibilities!
- Lemon Herb White Beans: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon along with a handful of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Sausage White Beans: Brown 1/2 pound of Italian sausage before adding the onions and garlic for a heartier meal.
- White Bean and Spinach: Add a cup of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. The spinach will wilt beautifully into the sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option. The nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a precise calculation, it's best to use a nutrition calculator.
This simple Camellia white bean recipe is a fantastic example of how delicious and healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated. It's a perfect quick dinner idea, a great addition to your collection of easy recipes, and a satisfying healthy meal for any night of the week. Enjoy!