Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms both the heart and the belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is one of my all-time favorites. It’s not just easy to make, but it’s also incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting family gathering. The rich tomato flavor combined with creamy white beans creates a dish that feels indulgent without any dairy or meat. I can almost smell it simmering as I write this!

What I love most about this stew is its versatility. You can whip it up in just 25 minutes and enjoy it on its own or serve it alongside rice, quinoa, or crusty bread. Whether you’re feeding your family or treating yourself after a long day, this stew is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 25 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein-rich white beans and vibrant veggies, this stew is as healthy as it is tasty.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the creamy texture and rich flavors—perfect for picky eaters!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare this stew in advance and reheat for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Comforting Flavor: The delightful combination of tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil creates a warm hug in a bowl!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew uses simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. You’ll love how these everyday items come together to create such a comforting dish.

• 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

The beauty of this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew lies in its flexibility! Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or zucchini for more color and nutrition.
• Change Up the Greens: Spinach, kale, or even Swiss chard work wonderfully if you want to switch things up.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick if you enjoy some heat.
• Make It Chunky: Instead of blending everything smooth, leave some beans whole for added 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. Add the sliced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until soft. This step builds a flavorful base for your stew. Next, toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes until they soften up beautifully. Stir frequently; you’ll want those juicy tomatoes to release their sweetness!

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Now it’s time to enhance those delicious flavors! Stir in the minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Cook everything together for about one minute until fragrant. This step is crucial because it deepens the flavor profile of your stew as the tomato paste darkens slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Broth Mixture

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the arrowroot starch with a splash of vegetable broth until smooth. This helps prevent any lumps when adding it to the rest of the broth later. Once mixed well, pour this into the remaining broth.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Beans

Pour the prepared broth mixture into your pan along with the rinsed cannellini beans. Let everything simmer gently for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. This slow cooking allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Add Creaminess and Greens

Stir in your vegan cream cheese (or coconut/cashew cream) until melted into the stew—it’s going to be so creamy! Now fold in those baby greens and cook just until wilted—about one minute should do it. Finally, mix in fresh lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t forget that final touch of basil on top!

Step 6: Serve Up Your Creation

Now comes my favorite part—enjoying your delicious creation! Serve it over rice, quinoa, greens, with toast, or savor it all on its own. You’ve just made an incredible bowl of comfort food that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Making this stew is a breeze, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate it even further!

• Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh basil or parsley not only enhances the flavor but also brightens the dish visually. Fresh herbs bring a burst of freshness that complements the creamy stew beautifully.

• Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice at the end adds brightness and balances the richness of the cream cheese. It elevates the overall taste, making each bite more vibrant.

• Experiment with Greens: While baby arugula and spinach are great choices, feel free to use kale or Swiss chard for added texture and nutrients. Different greens can change the flavor profile and make it uniquely yours.

• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, simply let it simmer longer or add a bit more arrowroot starch mixed with broth. This allows you to customize the consistency to your liking.

• Make It Ahead: This stew keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together even more, making for an even tastier meal!

How to Serve Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Serving your Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew can be just as fun as making it! Here are some delicious ways to present this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of freshly sliced basil on top adds color and enhances flavor.
• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of chili flakes brings a delightful kick.
• Vegan Parmesan: A light dusting of vegan Parmesan gives a cheesy touch without any dairy.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up all that creamy goodness perfectly!
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing complements the stew’s richness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Lightly seasoned roasted vegetables add a crunchy contrast and boost nutritional value.
• Simple Green Salad: A mixed green salad drizzled with vinaigrette provides a crisp counterbalance to the creamy stew.

Embrace these serving ideas and make your Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew an unforgettable experience! Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge and can easily be portioned out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

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 ensure freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• For stovetop reheating, place the stew in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• If using a microwave, heat in a microwave-safe dish in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until warm.
• Add a splash of vegetable broth if the stew has thickened during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious stew.

Can I make Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew without cream cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute dairy-free cream cheese with coconut cream or cashew cream for a similarly creamy texture.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, this stew will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

What can I serve with Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

This hearty stew pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, toasted bread, or even served on a bed of greens. It’s versatile and satisfying!

Can I use other beans instead of cannellini beans?

Yes! Feel free to swap cannellini beans for any other white bean variety you prefer, such as navy beans or great northern beans.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients used in this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew are gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew as much as I do! With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s not only comforting but also nourishing. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night at home or meal prepping for busy weekdays, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience with me!