Mediterranean White Bean Stew

Name: Mediterranean White Bean Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of white beans (cannellini or great northern), rinsed and drained; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love making this Mediterranean White Bean Stew, especially during colder months. The combination of fragrant herbs, tender beans, and colorful vegetables creates a dish that's not only hearty but also incredibly comforting. Every spoonful is packed with flavor and warmth, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family. I often serve it with crusty bread to soak up the flavors, and I can guarantee that it will become a favorite in your home too. Trust me, this stew will leave you feeling satisfied and happy!

Created by

Linnea Porter

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:45:36.307Z

When I first tried making Mediterranean White Bean Stew, I was amazed by how minimal effort resulted in such a flavorful dish. The secret is using quality ingredients like fresh herbs and good-quality olive oil. I often use a mix of cannellini and great northern beans for texture, which makes the stew not only creamy but also satisfying.

Over time, I’ve discovered that adding a splash of lemon juice at the end makes all the difference, brightening the flavors beautifully. It's a simple tip that elevates the dish, and I can’t recommend it enough!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty, rich flavors that warm the soul
Packed with nutritious ingredients for a healthy meal
Perfect for meal prep and easy to reheat

Choosing the Right Beans

The choice of beans is essential in this Mediterranean White Bean Stew. Cannellini beans, with their creamy texture, provide a luxurious mouthfeel that pairs beautifully with the stew's rich broth. If you opt for great northern beans, you'll still achieve a hearty result; they just bring a slightly different flavor. Always rinse and drain the beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and preserve the stew's vibrant flavor profile. This step ensures that each bite bursts with the stew's herbs and spices, enhancing your overall dining experience.

For added texture, consider using dried beans instead of canned. If you do, soak them overnight in plenty of water and cook them until tender before adding them to the stew. This not only allows for a customized texture but also infuses the dish with a deeper flavor as the beans absorb the stew’s essence. Ensure you adjust the cooking time accordingly, as dried beans require more time to cook compared to their canned counterparts.

Customizing Your Stew

One of the best features of this stew is its versatility. Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables to the mix, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or even kale. Simply chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot during the simmering stage. This step not only boosts the nutritional value but also enhances the visual appeal with vibrant colors. Just be careful not to overcrowd the pot, as this can dilute the rich flavors you’ve created.

If you’re looking for a protein boost, consider incorporating some cooked sausage or shredded chicken. These can be added along with the beans. Ensure they are cooked through before simmering the stew, as this will impart additional flavor. For a vegan option, try adding nutritional yeast or a splash of soy sauce to enrich the umami profile without compromising the dish's plant-based essence.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This stew is ideal for meal prepping! It stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making leftovers even more delightful. If you need to freeze it, be sure to leave some space in the container for expansion, as liquids can swell when frozen. The stew should stay fresh for up to three months in the freezer; just remember to label your containers with the date for easy tracking.

When reheating, do so gently over medium heat to maintain the stew's rich flavors and prevent sticking. You might want to add a splash of vegetable broth to loosen the stew if it thickens too much during refrigeration. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on it to avoid burning. Serve it warm with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a revitalized presentation.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 cans of white beans (cannellini or great northern), rinsed and drained
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Instructions

Steps to Prepare

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until they are soft. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 2 minutes, until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, white beans, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer.

Simmer the Stew

Allow the stew to simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help meld the flavors together.

Finish and Serve

Once the stew is thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat. Stir in the lemon juice and taste for seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, feel free to add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of white wine while cooking. This stew also freezes wonderfully, so make a big batch and enjoy it later!

Serving Suggestions

To create a satisfying meal, serve this Mediterranean White Bean Stew with crusty bread. Baguettes, sourdough, or rustic country loaves are excellent choices for soaking up the flavors. You might also consider pairing it with a side salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the dish's heartiness with a fresh crunch.

If you want to elevate your experience further, try serving the stew with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of feta cheese or olives as a garnish. This not only adds a salty punch but also enhances the Mediterranean theme of the dish.

Flavor Profiles and Aromatics

The aromatic foundation of this stew is built on the sautéed onion, carrot, and celery, known as mirepoix in classic cooking terminology. This combination creates a sweet and earthy base that complements the creaminess of the white beans. The addition of garlic right before the liquid ensures that it retains its pungency, intensifying the dish’s overall flavor complexity.

Smoked paprika adds depth and an unexpected smoky nuance, setting this dish apart from other bean stews. Don't skip it! Balance the flavors with the acidity of lemon juice, which not only brightens the dish but also rounds out the richness from the olive oil and beans. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning after adding lemon juice—this step is crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook the dried beans beforehand. Plan for extra time and ensure they're tender before adding them to the stew.

→ Is this stew vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This recipe is plant-based and packed with wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for vegans.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store the stew in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months in an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even over cooked grains like quinoa or rice.