Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, then this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is just what you need. There’s something so comforting about a bowl of stew, especially when it’s packed with wholesome ingredients. This recipe has become one of my favorites because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up on busy weeknights or during family gatherings. In just 25 minutes, you can have a nutritious and satisfying dish that everyone will love!

What makes this stew truly special is its creamy texture without any dairy—thanks to the vegan cream cheese! It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for dipping crusty bread or spooning over rice. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll be on your regular dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With only 25 minutes from start to finish, this stew fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the comforting flavors of tomatoes and beans.
• Healthy and nutritious: Packed with protein from white beans and plenty of vitamins from fresh greens, it’s a wholesome choice.
• Versatile: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with rice, quinoa, or toast for a filling meal.
• Make-ahead convenience: This stew keeps well in the fridge, making leftovers an easy lunch option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything you need for this delightful dish!

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make some adjustments based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper if you want a little heat.
• Change the greens: Use kale or Swiss chard instead of baby greens for a different twist.
• Swap the protein: If you’re not keen on white beans, try chickpeas for a similar texture and protein boost.

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 become translucent. This step brings out their sweetness! Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes until they soften nicely. Stir frequently to avoid sticking.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Now it’s time to amp up those flavors! Add in the minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir constantly for about one minute until fragrant. You’ll notice how the tomato paste darkens in color; this is when it’s at its best!

Step 3: Prepare the Broth Mixture

In a separate small bowl, whisk the arrowroot starch with a splash of vegetable broth until smooth. This will help thicken our stew nicely! Once combined, mix it into the remaining vegetable broth.

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

Pour the thickened broth into your pan along with the rinsed white beans. Let everything simmer gently for about 5 minutes until heated through and slightly thickened. This step allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Stir in the vegan cream cheese until melted into the stew—this is where things get creamy! Then add in your baby greens and cook just until they wilt down; this should take about a minute. Finish by mixing in freshly squeezed lemon juice—this brightens everything up beautifully!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Top with fresh basil before serving! You can enjoy this hearty stew over rice or quinoa, alongside some crusty bread, or even all on its own as a fulfilling meal.

I hope you love this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew as much as I do! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Making this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is simple, but a few tips can take it to the next level.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can enhance the flavors and add vibrant colors to your stew, making it not only tastier but also visually appealing.

• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, simply let it simmer a bit longer or add more arrowroot starch. For a thinner consistency, add extra vegetable broth until you reach your desired texture.

• Experiment with greens: While baby arugula and spinach are great options, feel free to use kale, Swiss chard, or any other leafy greens you have on hand for added nutrition.

• Add spices for depth: Consider adding spices like smoked paprika or cumin to elevate the flavor profile of your stew. They bring warmth and complexity that complements the tomatoes wonderfully.

• Make it ahead of time: This stew tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld together overnight in the fridge for a delicious meal that’s ready to go.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Serving this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is all about creating an inviting meal. Here are some ideas to present the dish beautifully and enjoyably.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: Sliced fresh basil adds a burst of aroma and flavor that brightens up the stew.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A touch of high-quality olive oil can enhance richness and bring out the stew’s flavors even more.
• Toasted seeds or nuts: Adding toasted pumpkin seeds or pine nuts provides a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy texture of the stew.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty whole-grain bread is perfect for dipping into your stew, making every bite satisfying.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the hearty stew.
• Roasted vegetables: Pairing this dish with roasted seasonal vegetables adds both color and nutrients to your meal while complementing its flavors beautifully.
• Simple green salad: A side salad with mixed greens dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette creates a fresh contrast that enhances the overall dining experience.

Enjoy your deliciously satisfying Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew with these serving suggestions!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, saving you time while providing delicious and nutritious meals. Here’s how to store and manage your leftovers effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stew to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some room at the top for expansion as it freezes.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful stew!

Can I make Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew without sun-dried tomatoes?

Absolutely! You can omit them or substitute with additional fresh tomatoes or a splash of balsamic vinegar for added flavor.

What can I serve with Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

This stew is versatile! Enjoy it on its own, or serve it over rice, quinoa, or alongside crusty bread for a hearty meal.

Can I use other beans in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to swap cannellini beans with any other white beans like navy or great northern beans as per your preference.

Is this stew suitable for freezing?

Yes! This stew freezes well. Just remember to portion it out properly and follow the freezing guidelines provided above.

How can I add more vegetables to my Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

You can easily add diced zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots while sautéing. These vegetables will enhance the flavor and nutrition of your stew!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew as comforting and satisfying as I do. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s a wonderful dish to share with friends or enjoy on a cozy evening at home. Give this recipe a try, and I’m sure you’ll love making it just as much as eating it. Happy cooking!