Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms both your heart and belly, then this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is just what you need! This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my kitchen because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly quick to whip up. In just 25 minutes, you can serve a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug, perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings.

What I love most about this stew is how simple the ingredients are yet packed with flavor. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy wholesome beans, vibrant tomatoes, and fresh greens—all simmered together into a creamy delight. Let’s dive in and make your new go-to recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes of cooking time, this stew is perfect for those hectic days when you need something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavorful Comfort: The rich blend of tomatoes and creamy white beans creates a satisfying taste that makes every spoonful delightful.
• Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy this nutritious stew, making it great for kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This dish can be easily prepped in advance. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
• Versatile Enjoyment: Whether served over rice or on its own, this stew fits any occasion—lunch with friends, dinner at home, or meal prep for the week ahead.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create our Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew! These are staples you might already have in your pantry or can easily find at your local grocery store.

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

Variations

What’s great about this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on what you have at hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some diced zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions for a spicy kick.
• Change the Beans: Feel free to swap out cannellini beans for chickpeas or navy beans—each offers its unique texture!
• Make It Chunky: For more texture, blend half of the stew after cooking and mix it back in with the remaining chunky ingredients.

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. Start by adding the sliced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften. Then, add the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes. This step is crucial as sautéing these vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and flavors.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Now it’s time to stir in the minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Cook everything together while stirring constantly for one minute until fragrant. This helps deepen the flavor profile of our stew!

Step 3: Prepare the Broth Mixture

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the arrowroot starch with a splash of vegetable broth until smooth. Then mix this into the rest of the broth to thicken our stew later; it’s key for achieving that creamy consistency.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour the prepared broth into the pan along with the drained beans. Let everything cook together on low heat for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir occasionally to ensure it warms evenly throughout.

Step 5: Stir in Creaminess

It’s time to add that delicious vegan cream cheese! Stir until it melts completely into our cozy stew. Next, mix in those vibrant greens—let them wilt down for about one minute before squeezing in fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Garnish your creamy stew with fresh basil right before serving. Enjoy this delightful dish over rice, quinoa, or even alongside some crusty bread for dipping! Each bite is sure to bring joy on any day!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Creating the perfect stew can be a breeze with just a few expert tips in your back pocket!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant color and nutrients to your stew, making it even more appealing and healthy.

• Adjust thickness to taste: If you prefer a thicker stew, simply let it simmer a bit longer or add an extra splash of arrowroot starch. On the other hand, if you like it more soupy, add additional vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoning to elevate the flavor profile of your stew. These additions can bring out new dimensions and make each bite exciting.

• Let it rest: Allowing your stew to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking can deepen the flavors as they meld together. This simple step can make a noticeable difference in taste!

• Customize with protein: If you’d like to boost the protein content even further, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas, which blend beautifully into the dish while offering extra nutrition.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of sliced fresh basil adds a burst of freshness that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
• Vegan parmesan: Grated vegan parmesan offers a cheesy flavor without any dairy, enhancing the richness of your stew.
• Chili flakes: A dash of chili flakes provides a subtle heat that can elevate the overall experience if you enjoy a little spice.

Side Dishes

• Crusty whole grain bread: Perfect for dipping into your creamy stew, crusty bread adds texture and makes every bite satisfying.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad made with cucumbers, bell peppers, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs wonderfully by adding crunch and refreshing flavors.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and provide additional nutrients that complement your stew beautifully.
• Simple green salad: A mixed greens salad drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar provides a crisp contrast to the creamy stew and makes for a well-rounded meal.

Now that you’re armed with these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to enjoy this delightful Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prepping! You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making your lunches or dinners quick and easy.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• To retain the flavors, avoid storing with any garnishes like basil until you’re ready to serve.

Freezing

• Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the stew will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, label each container with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew!

Can I make this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew with different beans?

Absolutely! You can use any type of white beans you prefer, such as navy beans or great northern beans. Each will provide a delightful texture and flavor to your stew.

What can I serve with Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

This vegan stew pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, a slice of crusty bread, or even a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

How long does Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this stew will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew as much as I do! Its comforting flavors and hearty ingredients make it a special recipe that’s not only nourishing but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, I’m sure it will bring warmth to your table. Happy cooking!