Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

The rich and comforting flavors of this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. If you’re looking for something hearty yet simple, this stew is perfect. It’s a dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, all while being completely plant-based and dairy-free. Plus, it comes together in just 25 minutes—who wouldn’t love that?

What makes this stew special is its blend of wholesome ingredients like protein-packed white beans and vibrant cherry tomatoes. Each spoonful is not only delicious but also nourishing. Whether you enjoy it over rice, quinoa, or on its own, this stew will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This stew can be ready in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Family-friendly: With its comforting flavors, even picky eaters will ask for seconds!
• Nutrient-rich: Packed with greens and beans, it’s a wholesome meal you can feel good about.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with your favorite sides.
• Make-ahead option: It stores well in the fridge, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is a breeze! They are all simple and wholesome, making this dish even more appealing. Here’s what you’ll need:

Fresh Ingredients

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

Pantry Staples

• 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

Greens and Creaminess

• 2 cups baby greens, like baby arugula or spinach
• ¼ cup vegan cream cheese (or 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 Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a kick of heat if you like things spicy.
• Change the beans: Use chickpeas or navy beans instead of cannellini for a different flavor profile.
• Herb swap: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano to customize the flavor.

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 oil. Sauté the sliced onion for about 3 minutes until it starts to soften. This step is crucial—it brings out the sweetness of the onion and lays the foundation for delicious flavors. Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes until they are softened.

Step 2: Enhance with Flavorful Additions

Stir in the minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Cook everything together while stirring constantly for about one minute until fragrant. This helps develop a rich flavor base that will elevate your stew!

Step 3: Thicken the Broth

In a separate small bowl, whisk together arrowroot starch with a splash of vegetable broth until smooth. Then pour this mixture into the saucepan along with the remaining broth. Stir well to combine; this will help thicken the stew as it cooks.

Step 4: Simmer Away!

Add in the rinsed cannellini beans next. Let everything cook at a low simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened and warmed through. This gentle simmer allows all those lovely flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Mix in Creaminess and Greens

Now it’s time to stir in your vegan cream cheese! Mix well until it’s melted into the stew. Then gently fold in those nutritious greens until they wilt—this should take only about one minute—and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Top your stew with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy it over rice, quinoa, or simply on its own—either way, you’re in for a treat!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Creating the perfect Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh produce enhances the flavors and textures in your stew. Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes and crisp greens for the best results.

• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a creamier texture, simply add more vegan cream cheese or coconut cream. This will give your stew an even richer mouthfeel.

• Spice it up: For those who love a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika. This will add depth and warmth to your stew without overpowering the other flavors.

• Make it ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

• Experiment with veggies: Feel free to mix in other seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots. This not only adds variety but also boosts the nutritional value of your meal.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Serving your Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: Slicing fresh basil over the stew not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor with its aromatic qualities.
• Nutritional yeast: Sprinkling a bit of nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor while boosting vitamin B12 content—perfect for plant-based meals!

Side Dishes

• Crusty whole grain bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy stew, providing a satisfying crunch alongside each bite.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the stew while adding freshness to your meal.
• Quinoa: Cooked quinoa is an excellent side that not only complements the stew but also provides additional protein and fiber—making your meal even heartier!
• Roasted vegetables: Pair with roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots. Their caramelized sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory stew.

Now that you know how to make, serve, and enhance your Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew, it’s time to gather your ingredients and dive into this delicious adventure! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is perfect for meal prep! Its flavors deepen and improve over time, making it an ideal dish to whip up in advance. Plus, it’s quick to reheat for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 4 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
• Label with the date for easy identification later.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also microwave individual portions; just cover lightly and heat in intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

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

Absolutely! You can substitute with coconut cream or cashew cream for a rich and creamy texture.

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

This stew lasts about 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I add more vegetables to this stew?

Yes! Feel free to include your favorite veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free starches like arrowroot or tapioca.

What can I serve with Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

It pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a slice of crusty bread. Enjoy it on its own or as part of a larger meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew as much as I do! It’s comforting, nutritious, and so easy to prepare. Whether you’re having it for lunch or dinner, it’s sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table. Happy cooking!