Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that comes together in no time, this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is just what you need! It’s rich, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you have friends over for a casual gathering, this stew brings warmth and comfort to any table. Plus, it’s entirely plant-based, making it a wonderful choice for everyone.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is while still being hearty and delicious. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a nourishing dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This stew comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for a last-minute dinner.
• Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy the comforting flavors of creamy tomatoes and beans.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare this stew ahead of time and reheat it for a quick lunch or dinner.
• Nutrient-Packed: With white beans, greens, and tomatoes, it’s loaded with protein and vitamins.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it on its own or serve it over rice or quinoa for an extra filling meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Each one plays an essential role in creating the rich flavor of the Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew.

For the Base

• 1 small yellow onion, sliced
• 8 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

For the Stew

• 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

For Creaminess and Flavor

• ¼ cup vegan cream cheese (can also substitute with coconut cream or cashew cream)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 small lemon, juiced
• ¼ cup fresh basil, sliced, to garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some diced zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika if you like a little heat.
• Change the Greens: Swap baby arugula for kale or Swiss chard depending on your preference.
• Make It Chunky: Instead of blending in the cream cheese fully, leave some chunks for added texture.

How to Make Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil. Toss in the sliced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it’s softened. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the onions to sweeten and the tomatoes to burst with flavor.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Next, stir in the minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Cook while stirring constantly for about one minute until everything is fragrant. This will deepen the flavor profile of your stew beautifully!

Step 3: Prepare Your Broth Mixture

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the arrowroot starch with a splash of broth until smooth. Then mix this into the remaining vegetable broth. Doing this helps thicken your stew without clumps.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour your broth mixture into the pan along with the rinsed white beans. Let everything simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together while thickening up slightly—just what we want!

Step 5: Stir in Creaminess

Now it’s time to add that creamy goodness! Stir in your vegan cream cheese until melted into the stew. Next, mix in your greens and let them wilt for about one minute before adding freshly squeezed lemon juice along with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Top your delicious stew with fresh basil before serving! This dish is fantastic on its own but pairs beautifully over rice or quinoa if you’re feeling extra hungry. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Making this stew is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you can elevate your cooking game even further!

• Prep Ahead: Chopping the onions and tomatoes in advance can save you time when you’re ready to cook. This way, you can simply toss everything into the pot without any last-minute chopping.

• Experiment with Greens: While baby arugula or spinach are great choices, feel free to mix it up! Kale or Swiss chard can add a heartier texture and an extra boost of nutrients.

• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier texture, add more vegan cream cheese or a splash of coconut milk. This will make your stew even richer and more comforting.

• Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. This will bring an exciting kick to your stew!

• Make It a Meal: To turn this hearty stew into a full meal, serve it over grains like brown rice or quinoa. This adds fiber and makes it even more filling.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

This creamy tomato white bean stew is not only delicious but also visually appealing. With its vibrant colors and rich textures, you’ll want to present it beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of freshly sliced basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile with its aromatic notes.
• Lemon Zest: Grating some lemon zest over the top right before serving adds brightness and freshness, balancing the richness of the stew.
• Chili Flakes: If you like a little spice, adding chili flakes as a garnish provides both heat and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs perfectly with this stew, allowing you to scoop up every last drop while adding a satisfying crunch.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the hearty stew well, providing freshness.
• Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa is an excellent side that enhances the dish’s protein content and makes for a nutritious addition to your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of seasonal roasted vegetables adds depth and variety to your plate while bringing out the natural sweetness in each bite.

With these suggestions in hand, you’ll not only enjoy making this creamy tomato white bean stew but also impress everyone at your dining table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors throughout the week. Preparing this dish in advance not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as it sits.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion out the cooled stew into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container or bag, as liquids expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that you might find helpful!

Can I make Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew without sun-dried tomatoes?

Absolutely! If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes on hand, you can simply omit them or substitute with extra cherry tomatoes for added sweetness.

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

If you’d like a thicker stew, simply add more arrowroot starch mixed with a bit of broth and simmer until thickened. For a thinner consistency, add more vegetable broth gradually until desired.

What can I serve with Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread. You can also serve it over leafy greens for a lighter meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings together wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors. Enjoy trying it out and feel free to get creative with your own additions. Happy cooking!