Name: Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 small yellow onion, sliced; 8 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved; 4 garlic cloves, minced; ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 1¼ cup vegetable broth; ¼ cup vegan cream cheese (or coconut cream/cashew cream); Fresh basil, to garnish; Salt and pepper, to taste

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If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is one of those recipes that feels like a hug in a bowl. Packed with flavor and nutrition, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without too much fuss. Plus, it’s plant-based and full of wholesome ingredients that everyone in the family will love!

What makes this stew even more special is how quick and easy it is to whip up—just 25 minutes! Whether you’re hosting a casual family gathering or simply enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this vegan stew is sure to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, this stew fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
Nutritious Ingredients: It’s loaded with protein-rich white beans and vibrant greens, making it a wholesome choice.
Family-Friendly: The creamy texture and delicious flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, over rice, or paired with crusty bread—the possibilities are endless!
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily scale up the recipe, making leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting ready to make this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew? You’ll find that the ingredients are simple and wholesome, making your cooking experience enjoyable. Here’s what you need:

Fresh Produce

1 small yellow onion, sliced
8 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved
4 garlic cloves, minced
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 small lemon, juiced
¼ cup fresh basil, sliced, to garnish

Canned Goods & Broths

1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, or other white beans of choice, drained and rinsed
1¼ cup vegetable broth

Pantry Staples

1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon arrowroot starch, tapioca starch, or cornstarch
Salt and pepper, to taste

Creamy Element

¼ cup vegan cream cheese (or coconut cream or cashew cream as an alternative)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas for how you can tweak it based on your preferences:

Add More Veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color.
Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix.
Different Beans: Feel free to swap out cannellini beans for chickpeas or navy beans—each will bring its unique flavor!
Cream Alternatives: For a different twist on creaminess, try blending soaked cashews into the stew instead of using vegan cream cheese.

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. Next, toss in the sliced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it’s soft. Then add the cherry tomatoes and let them cook down for another 5 minutes. This step is crucial because it helps develop the flavors right from the beginning!

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Once your onions are translucent and your tomatoes have softened nicely, it’s time to add in the minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir constantly for about one minute until everything is fragrant. This not only enhances the aroma but also deepens the color of your stew.

Step 3: Prepare the Broth Mixture

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the arrowroot starch with a splash of vegetable broth. This helps prevent any lumps when you mix it into the rest of your broth later on.

Step 4: Combine Everything in One Pot

Pour in the remaining vegetable broth along with your rinsed white beans. Let everything simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened and warmed through. This step allows all those beautiful flavors to mingle together!

Step 5: Stir in Creaminess

Now comes my favorite part—stirring in that luscious cream cheese! Mix until it’s melted into the stew. Then fold in your baby greens and let them wilt for about a minute before squeezing in fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Finally, ladle your creamy tomato white bean stew into bowls and top with fresh basil. You can enjoy this delightful dish over rice or quinoa—or even just by itself for a truly comforting meal!

I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen just as it does mine! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Making this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate your dish to the next level!

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes and greens bring vibrant flavors and nutrients that enhance the overall taste of your stew.
Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, simply add a bit more arrowroot starch mixed with broth. This will give your stew that perfect creamy texture without compromising flavor.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices like paprika, cumin, or Italian herbs to create a flavor profile that suits your palate. This adds depth and makes the stew uniquely yours.
Let it simmer: Allowing your stew to simmer a little longer can deepen the flavors, making it even more comforting and delicious.
Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors often develop even further overnight!

How to Serve Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

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

Garnishes

Fresh basil: Adding sliced fresh basil on top not only brings color but also enhances freshness and aroma.
Vegan parmesan: Sprinkling some dairy-free parmesan adds a savory umami kick that pairs perfectly with the established flavors of the stew.
Chili flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a sprinkle of chili flakes can elevate the dish and give it that extra zing.

Side Dishes

Crusty whole grain bread: A slice of hearty whole grain bread is perfect for dunking into the creamy stew, making each bite even more satisfying.
Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon dressing complements the richness of the stew while adding refreshing crunch.
Steamed broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli provides a nutrient boost and its mild flavor balances out the boldness of the stew beautifully.
Simple mixed greens: A side salad featuring mixed greens dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon juice adds brightness to your plate while keeping things healthy.

Enjoy your Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew with these delightful garnishes and sides for a complete meal that’s both comforting and nutritious! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a big batch to enjoy throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly to keep all those wonderful flavors intact.

Storing Leftovers

Place the stew in an airtight container.
Allow it to cool completely before sealing.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Let the stew cool down completely.
Transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with date for easy tracking!

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Add a splash of vegetable broth if it’s too thick when reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious stew.

Can I use other types of beans for the Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

Absolutely! While cannellini beans are a great choice, feel free to use any white beans like navy or great northern beans. They all work wonderfully in this recipe.

How can I make my Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew spicier?

If you like a kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking. You can also stir in some hot sauce just before serving for an extra layer of flavor!

What should I serve with my Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

This stew is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread. A simple side salad can also complement it nicely!

Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is gluten-free as long as you ensure that your vegetable broth and any additional ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew! It’s not only easy and quick but also brings warmth and comfort with every spoonful. Enjoy this nutritious dish as part of your lunch or dinner, and don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family. Happy cooking!

Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Category: Main
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: Vegan

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Description

Warm up your evenings with this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew, a delightful vegan dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a hearty bowl filled with protein-rich white beans, vibrant vegetables, and creamy goodness. This stew is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile—you can enjoy it on its own or pair it with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for a complete meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings, this plant-based dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!

Ingredients

Scale

1 small yellow onion, sliced
8 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved
4 garlic cloves, minced
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1¼ cup vegetable broth
¼ cup vegan cream cheese (or coconut cream/cashew cream)
Fresh basil, to garnish
Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add oil and sauté the onion until soft.
Add cherry tomatoes; cook until softened.
Stir in garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste; cook briefly until fragrant.
Whisk arrowroot starch with a splash of vegetable broth in a separate bowl.
Pour in remaining broth and add rinsed beans; simmer for about 5 minutes.
Stir in vegan cream cheese until melted; fold in baby greens and lemon juice.
Season to taste and serve garnished with fresh basil.