Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty dish that warms the soul, let me introduce you to my favorite Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew. This delightful vegan stew is truly a hug in a bowl! It’s packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. In just 25 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready that everyone will love.

What makes this recipe extra special is how versatile it is. You can enjoy it on its own, over rice or quinoa, or even with a slice of crusty bread. Whether you’re new to plant-based cooking or a seasoned chef, this creamy stew is simple enough for anyone to whip up!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, this stew is perfect for those hectic days when time is short.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of fresh tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and creamy goodness creates an irresistible taste.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Enjoy the health benefits of white beans and greens while indulging in comfort food.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it a great addition to your weekly meals.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare a batch in advance and reheat for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is a breeze! You’ll find that these simple and wholesome components come together beautifully to create a flavorful dish. Here’s what you need:

For the Stew

• 1 small yellow onion, sliced
• 8 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, or other white beans of choice, drained and rinsed
• 1¼ cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon arrowroot starch, tapioca starch, or cornstarch
• 2 cups baby greens, like baby arugula or spinach
• ¼ cup vegan cream cheese (or substitute with coconut cream or cashew cream)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 small lemon, juiced
• ¼ cup fresh basil, sliced, to garnish

Variations

One of the best things about this stew is its flexibility! Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some diced zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Change the Greens: Swap out baby arugula or spinach for kale or Swiss chard—both work wonderfully!
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your stew.
• Creamy Alternative: Instead of vegan cream cheese, try using coconut milk for a different creamy texture.

How to Make Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon avocado or olive oil. Next, toss in the sliced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until they soften. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook them down for another 5 minutes until they are tender. This step caramelizes the onions and brings out their natural sweetness while creating a flavorful base.

Step 2: Build the Flavor

Now it’s time to add those fragrant elements! Stir in the minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Cook everything together for about one minute while stirring constantly. This ensures that the garlic doesn’t burn and allows all those wonderful flavors to meld.

Step 3: Thicken It Up

In a separate small bowl, whisk together your arrowroot starch with just a splash of vegetable broth until smooth. Then pour this mixture into the rest of the broth in your saucepan. This helps thicken your stew beautifully!

Step 4: Simmer Away

Pour the vegetable broth into your pan along with the rinsed cannellini beans. Let everything cook at a low simmer for about 5 minutes until warmed through and slightly thickened. This step not only heats up your ingredients but also lets them become friends!

Step 5: Add Creaminess & Greens

Stir in the vegan cream cheese until it melts into your stew—trust me; this is where it gets super creamy! Add your baby greens next and stir until they wilt down—about one minute should do it! Lastly, mix in freshly squeezed lemon juice along with salt and pepper to taste. Finish by topping with fresh basil for that burst of flavor.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Now comes one of my favorite parts—enjoying your delicious creation! Serve this lovely stew over rice or quinoa, alongside greens, with toast—or simply savor it on its own!

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is sure to become a beloved recipe in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Making the perfect Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is easier than you think! Here are some tips to help you achieve a rich and satisfying flavor.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavors of your stew, making it taste vibrant and delicious. Fresh ingredients also provide more nutrients, which is always a bonus!

• Adjust thickness to your liking: If you prefer a thicker stew, simply let it simmer longer or add a bit more arrowroot starch. For a thinner consistency, add extra vegetable broth until you reach your desired texture.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices like cumin, smoked paprika, or red pepper flakes for an extra kick. This will give your stew additional depth and complexity.

• Let it sit: Allowing the stew to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully. You’ll find that the taste improves even more as it sits!

• Make it ahead of time: This stew keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Preparing it ahead allows the flavors to develop even further and makes for quick meals throughout the week.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Serving this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is all about presentation and complementing its delightful flavors! Here are some ideas on how to make your dish shine.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of freshly sliced basil on top not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic essence.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving elevates the dish’s richness and adds an elegant touch.
• Nutritional yeast: For those who love a cheesy flavor without dairy, nutritional yeast can sprinkle over the top for added umami and nutrition.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy stew. The texture of the bread complements the smoothness of the stew beautifully.
• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette adds a nutritious crunch that pairs wonderfully with this hearty dish.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers bring out natural sweetness and provide a lovely contrast in temperature and texture.
• Simple green salad: A light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the stew while adding freshness to your meal.

Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite sides or garnishes—it’s sure to become a staple in your home!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy days. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stew to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Consume leftovers within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Let the stew cool down before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I use different beans in my Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

Absolutely! While cannellini beans work wonderfully, feel free to substitute with other white beans like navy or great northern beans based on your preference.

Is Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This stew stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

How can I make the stew thicker if needed?

If you desire a thicker consistency, simply whisk an additional tablespoon of arrowroot starch with a splash of broth and stir it into the simmering stew until it thickens.

Can I add more vegetables to this stew?

Certainly! Feel free to incorporate your favorite veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.

What can I serve with Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

This stew pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, crusty bread, or even over a bed of greens for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew as much as I do! It’s not only comforting but also packed with nutrients—a perfect combination for any meal. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients and make it your own. Happy cooking!