Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

If you’re looking for a warm, hearty dish that feels like a hug in a bowl, you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is one of my absolute favorites. It’s rich, comforting, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish your body and soul.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a cozy gathering with family and friends, this stew is sure to impress. It’s quick to make—ready in just 25 minutes—and it’s both dairy-free and plant-based, so everyone can enjoy it. Let me share why you’ll love this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This stew comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic days when time is tight.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein-rich white beans, fresh tomatoes, and vibrant greens, this dish is as healthy as it is tasty.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the creamy texture and comforting flavors of this stew.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, quinoa, or even with some crusty bread—the possibilities are endless!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This stew stores well, so you can prepare a batch ahead of time for easy meals throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that making this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew requires simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you need to whip up this 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 replace 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 mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in diced carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Change Up the Greens: Kale or Swiss chard can be great alternatives if you’re looking for something different.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
• Make It Chunky: Instead of blending the broth for creaminess, try using crushed tomatoes for more texture.

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. Once hot, toss in the sliced onion. Sauté for about 3 minutes until they start to get soft and fragrant. Then add the cherry tomatoes and cook them down for another 5 minutes. This step allows the tomatoes to release their juices and sweeten up beautifully.

Step 2: Add Flavor Boosters

Next up is the garlic! Add the minced garlic along with sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook while stirring constantly for about one minute until everything is fragrant and the tomato paste darkens slightly. This helps deepen the stew’s flavor profile.

Step 3: Thicken the Broth

In a separate small bowl, whisk together your arrowroot starch with a splash of vegetable broth until smooth. Then mix that back into your remaining broth. Pour this mixture into your pan along with the rinsed cannellini beans. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes until everything is warmed through and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Stir in Creaminess

Now comes the best part—adding the vegan cream cheese! Stir it into your stew until it melts into all that deliciousness. Next, add in those lovely greens until they wilt down nicely; this should only take about a minute.

Step 5: Finish with Freshness

Squeeze in the juice of one small lemon to brighten everything up! Taste your stew now; don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper according to your liking. Finally, serve hot and garnish with fresh basil.

Enjoy Your Meal!

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew pairs wonderfully with rice or quinoa but can also stand alone as a satisfying meal on its own. I hope you enjoy every spoonful as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Making this stew is a breeze with a few handy tips that can elevate the flavors and textures. Here are some recommendations to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can significantly enhance the flavor of your stew. Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes and fresh basil when possible to bring brightness to every bite.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, simply add a bit more arrowroot starch mixed with broth. This will create a heartier consistency without compromising the creamy texture.
• Experiment with Greens: While baby arugula or spinach are great options, don’t hesitate to try other greens like kale or Swiss chard for added nutrition and flavor depth.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you cook! Adding salt and pepper gradually allows you to adjust the seasoning just right, ensuring the stew is balanced and flavorful.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Serving this delicious stew is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary dishes. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more delightful:

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the aromatic experience of the stew.
• Chili Flakes: If you enjoy a bit of heat, adding a pinch of chili flakes on top can give your dish an exciting kick.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich and creamy stew, making for a satisfying combination.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and texture that pairs wonderfully with the stew.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide an earthy complement that balances out the creaminess, making it a wholesome meal.
• Steamed Rice: Serving over a bed of fluffy steamed rice can absorb all those delicious flavors while adding heartiness to your dinner.

Enjoy crafting your own version of this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew, tailored perfectly to your taste buds! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store your delicious stew so you can savor it whenever you want.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 4 days.
• Make sure to let the stew cool down before sealing the container to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• This stew freezes beautifully!
• Pour cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, try to remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for easy reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave; just cover the bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re in the right place!

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

Absolutely! This stew stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Just follow the storage instructions above to keep it fresh.

What can I serve with Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

This hearty stew pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread. It’s also delicious on its own or served over a bed of greens for a lighter meal.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To ensure your Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is gluten-free, simply use certified gluten-free vegetable broth and starch. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

Can I customize the greens in this stew?

Yes! Feel free to use any greens you enjoy or have on hand, such as kale or Swiss chard, instead of baby arugula or spinach.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this comforting Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew! Its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients make it not only satisfying but also a nourishing choice for any day of the week. Enjoy every spoonful and share it with loved ones – it’s bound to bring smiles all around. Happy cooking!