Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, then this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is just the ticket! With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s a dish that makes busy weeknights feel special. This stew is not only quick to whip up, taking just 25 minutes, but it’s also loaded with nutritious ingredients that make it a wholesome choice for family gatherings or solo nights in.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can enjoy it on its own or serve it over rice or quinoa for a more filling meal. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something comforting and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, this stew is perfect for busy schedules.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with white beans, cherry tomatoes, and greens, it’s a healthy choice.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the creamy tomato flavor!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep this stew in advance and reheat it for a quick dinner.
• Deliciously Versatile: Serve it with rice, toast, or enjoy it straight from the bowl!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple ingredients is part of the fun! For this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew, you’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store. These wholesome ingredients come together to create a deliciously comforting meal.

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 get creative based on what you have on hand. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add More Vegetables: Toss in some diced zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Change Up the Greens: Swap baby arugula with kale or spinach for different textures.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika if you like a little heat.
• Incorporate Different Beans: Use chickpeas or navy beans instead of cannellini beans for a unique twist.

How to Make Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil. Start by adding the sliced onion and sautéing for about 3 minutes until they start to soften. Then toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook them down for another 5 minutes while stirring frequently. This step is important because it brings out their sweetness and builds a flavorful base.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Next, mix in the minced garlic along with the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir constantly for about one minute until everything becomes fragrant and the tomato paste darkens slightly. This deepens the stew’s flavor profile!

Step 3: Prepare the Broth Mixture

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the arrowroot starch with a splash of vegetable broth until smooth. Pour this mixture into the remaining vegetable broth before adding it into your pan. This step will help thicken your stew beautifully as it cooks.

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

Pour your prepared broth into the pan along with the drained white beans. Allow everything to simmer gently for about 5 minutes until warmed through and slightly thickened. Stir often so nothing sticks to the bottom—this ensures every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 5: Stir in Creaminess

Now comes the best part! Stir in your vegan cream cheese until it melts into the stew beautifully. Then fold in your baby greens and cook until they wilt down—which should take about one minute—and finish off by stirring in lemon juice along with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Top your hearty stew with freshly sliced basil before serving! Enjoy this delightful dish over rice, quinoa, or simply savor it on its own. Each spoonful will warm you from head to toe!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Creating a delicious stew is all about the little details, so here are some pro tips to help you elevate your Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew!

• Use fresh herbs: Adding fresh basil at the end enhances the flavor profile, giving it a vibrant touch that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, simply let it simmer longer or add a bit more arrowroot starch mixed with broth. This will create that cozy texture you’re aiming for!
• Experiment with greens: Feel free to mix in different greens like kale or Swiss chard if you want more variety and added nutrients. They bring not only flavor but also lovely color to your dish.
• Add spice: For those who enjoy a kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper while cooking. This will give your stew an exciting warmth without overpowering the dish.
• Make it ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! Make a batch in advance and store it in the fridge for an easy, ready-to-eat meal.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Serving this stew can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of freshly sliced basil not only looks beautiful but adds an aromatic flavor that brightens up the stew.
• Avocado slices: Adding creamy avocado on top makes for a rich texture contrast and enhances the overall creaminess.
• Toasted pine nuts: A handful of toasted pine nuts adds a nice crunch and nutty flavor, elevating every spoonful of your stew.

Side Dishes

• Crispy whole grain bread: A slice of warm, crispy whole grain bread is perfect for dipping into your stew, making each bite satisfying.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing complements the richness of the stew while adding freshness.
• Garlic roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots provide a hearty side that balances out the meal wonderfully.
• Simple green salad: A refreshing green salad dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon juice offers a crisp contrast to the creamy texture of the stew.

Whether you enjoy this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew on its own or with delightful sides, it’s sure to fill your kitchen with warmth and satisfaction. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste incredible, but it also stores well, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or lunches on the go.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will last for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing and storing.

Freezing

• Allow the stew to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat until hot, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Got questions about this delightful Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew? Here are some common ones!

Can I make Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! This stew is great for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freeze portions for later use.

What can I serve with Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

This stew pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or even toasted bread. Feel free to get creative with toppings like fresh basil or additional greens!

How do I adjust the thickness of my Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

If you prefer a thicker stew, simply add more arrowroot starch mixed with a little broth. Cook for an additional few minutes until thickened to your liking.

Can I customize the greens in the Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

Yes! Spinach, kale, or any leafy greens you enjoy can be swapped in. Just make sure they wilt down nicely when added at the end of cooking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew a try! It’s not just a meal; it’s comfort in a bowl that nourishes both body and soul. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, I know you’ll love how simple and satisfying it is to make. Happy cooking!