There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of escarole and beans. It’s a humble dish, yet packed with flavor and nourishment, proving that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you’re craving a light yet satisfying meal or looking for the perfect side dish, this Italian classic is a must-try. Trust me, once you taste the garlicky broth and tender greens, you’ll want to make this on repeat!
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Why You’ll Love Escarole and Beans
This recipe is more than just a dish—it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a wholesome side, escarole and beans have you covered. Here’s why it’s a staple in so many kitchens:
Nutritious and Hearty
Loaded with fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein, this dish is both satisfying and good for you.
Quick and Easy
Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort—perfect for busy days.
Budget-Friendly
Simple pantry ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful dish without breaking the bank.
Comforting and Flavorful
A garlicky, savory broth with tender beans and wilted escarole—every bite is pure comfort.
Versatile
Serve it as a soup, side dish, or even over pasta for a heartier meal.
Ingredients in Escarole and Beans
This dish relies on a handful of fresh and pantry staples that come together beautifully:
Escarole
A slightly bitter leafy green that mellows when cooked, giving the dish its signature flavor.
Cannellini Beans
Creamy and mild, these white beans soak up the garlicky broth perfectly. You can use canned for convenience or cook dried beans from scratch.
Garlic
The key to a flavorful broth! Sautéed garlic infuses the entire dish with rich, aromatic goodness.
Olive Oil
Adds depth and richness, making every bite silky and satisfying.
Vegetable or Chicken Broth
Gives the dish a flavorful base while keeping it light and brothy.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
A little heat to balance the flavors—adjust to taste!
Parmesan Cheese
Optional, but adds a salty, umami kick when sprinkled on top.
Salt and Pepper
Simple seasonings that enhance every ingredient in the dish.
(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Sauté the Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn it!
Add the Escarole
Toss in the chopped escarole and stir until it begins to wilt, about 2-3 minutes.
Pour in the Broth
Add the broth and bring it to a simmer. Let the flavors meld for about 5 minutes.
Stir in the Beans
Add the cannellini beans, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
Serve and Enjoy
Ladle into bowls and top with grated Parmesan if desired. Serve with crusty bread for the ultimate cozy meal.
How to Serve Escarole and Beans
This dish is delicious on its own but pairs well with a variety of sides:
Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up that flavorful broth.
Pasta: Toss it with cooked pasta for a more filling meal.
Grilled Chicken or Sausage: Adds protein for a hearty dinner.
Rice or Quinoa: A great way to turn it into a grain bowl.
Additional Tips
Make It a Soup
Add more broth to transform it into a full-bodied soup.
Spice It Up
Love heat? Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Go Plant-Based
Use vegetable broth and skip the Parmesan for a vegan-friendly dish.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Freezing
Freeze for up to 3 months—just thaw and warm it up when ready to enjoy!
FAQ
Q1: Can I use different greens?
Yes! Spinach, kale, or Swiss chard work well as substitutes.
Q2: Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Absolutely. Just soak and cook them ahead of time for the best texture.
Q3: How do I make it more filling?
Serve it over pasta, rice, or add sausage for extra protein.
Q4: Can I make it in advance?
Yes! It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat it?
Warm it gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.
Q6: Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Just serve it with gluten-free bread or over a gluten-free grain like quinoa.
Q7: Why is my escarole bitter?
Some bitterness is normal, but cooking it longer will mellow out the flavor.
Q8: Can I add meat?
Definitely! Pancetta, bacon, or sausage add a rich, savory depth.
Q9: How do I make it thicker?
Mash some of the beans while simmering to create a creamier texture.
Q10: Can I serve it cold?
It’s best warm, but leftovers can be enjoyed chilled as a salad topping!
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason escarole and beans have stood the test of time—it’s simple, comforting, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it as a quick dinner, a cozy lunch, or a side for a larger meal, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. So grab a loaf of crusty bread, get your pot simmering, and enjoy every garlicky, brothy bite!
Print
Escarole and Beans
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Escarole and Beans recipe is a simple, nutritious, and comforting dish packed with garlicky flavor, creamy cannellini beans, and tender escarole. Perfect for a quick meal or a hearty side, this classic Italian dish pairs wonderfully with toasted Italian bread and Parmigiano Reggiano.
Ingredients
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1 head of escarole, washed and chopped
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1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, rinsed
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4 garlic cloves, sliced
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1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
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1 cup chicken stock
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1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
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To serve:
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Toasted Italian bread slices
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Grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
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Instructions
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In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes.
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Once the garlic turns golden, add the cannellini beans and chicken stock. Simmer for 10 minutes.
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Add the chopped escarole, cover the pot, and cook for 10-15 minutes, depending on how tender you prefer the greens.
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Serve hot with toasted Italian bread and a sprinkle of grated Parmigiano Reggiano.
Notes
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For a vegetarian version, swap chicken stock for vegetable broth.
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For extra richness, stir in a drizzle of extra olive oil before serving.
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Make it heartier by adding cooked sausage or pancetta.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg