Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is one of my all-time favorites. It’s rich, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, it comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. Imagine sitting down with a bowl of this delicious stew, knowing you’re treating yourself to something wholesome and nourishing!

This stew shines not only in flavor but also in nutrition. Packed with protein-rich white beans and vibrant cherry tomatoes, it’s a delightful choice for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty vegan dish without a lot of fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this stew even on the busiest days.
• Nutritious and Filling: The combination of white beans and greens makes this stew packed with protein and vitamins.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is loved by both kids and adults alike—everyone will want seconds!
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, quinoa, or with crusty bread—there’s no wrong way to savor this meal.
• Deliciously Comforting: The creamy texture and rich flavors will have you coming back for more!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful stew! You might already have many of these in your pantry or fridge.

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some chopped zucchini or bell peppers for added texture and nutrients.
• Spice it Up: If you love heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for a kick!
• Change the Greens: Switch out baby arugula or spinach for kale or Swiss chard depending on what you have on hand.
• Creamy Alternatives: For a different flavor profile, try using cashew cream instead of 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 avocado oil. Toss in the sliced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until they soften up beautifully. This step builds the foundation of flavors that make our stew so comforting!

Step 2: Add Garlic & Tomatoes

Next up is adding the minced garlic along with the sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir constantly for about one minute until everything smells heavenly and the tomato paste darkens slightly. This caramelization deepens the flavor profile—a little trick I always swear by!

Step 3: Prepare the Broth Mixture

In a separate small bowl, whisk together your arrowroot starch with a splash of vegetable broth until smooth. Then mix that into the remaining broth. This step is crucial as it helps thicken our stew without any animal-derived gelatin.

Step 4: Combine & Simmer

Pour your prepared broth into the pan along with the drained cannellini beans. Let everything simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes until it thickens just enough to coat your spoon nicely. It’s during this time that all those lovely flavors meld together!

Step 5: Finish with Creaminess & Greens

Now stir in the vegan cream cheese until it melts into the stew—this is where the magic happens! Next, toss in your greens and cook just until they wilt down—about one minute should do it. Finally, squeeze in some fresh lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Top off your creamy tomato white bean stew with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy it over rice or quinoa—or get cozy with it straight from the bowl! Each bite will remind you why this recipe has become such a beloved favorite.

Now grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Making this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is a breeze, but a few helpful tips can make it even more delightful!

• Prep your ingredients ahead of time: Having everything chopped and ready to go will streamline the cooking process and keep you focused on creating that delicious stew.
• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, let it simmer a bit longer or add an extra teaspoon of starch. If you want it thinner, simply stir in more vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices such as smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for an extra kick. This will elevate the flavor profile and make your stew uniquely yours!
• Stir in seasonal vegetables: Adding veggies like zucchini or bell peppers can enhance both nutrition and texture. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use what you have on hand.
• Make it ahead of time: This stew tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat when you’re ready for a cozy meal.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Serving this hearty stew is just as delightful as making it! It’s versatile enough to pair well with various accompaniments that will complement its flavors beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro brings brightness and freshness to the dish.
• Nutritional yeast: This adds a cheesy flavor without any dairy. Just sprinkle some on top for an umami boost!
• Toasted seeds or nuts: Top your stew with pumpkin seeds or pine nuts for added crunch and nutritional benefits.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm slice of crusty whole-grain bread is perfect for soaking up all that creamy goodness. It’s comforting and satisfying!
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and lemon dressing adds freshness and complements the richness of the stew.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts bring a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the stew’s creaminess.
• Simple green salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, avocado, and balsamic vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast that balances out the warmth of the stew.

Enjoy your Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew with these serving suggestions for an unforgettable meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, hearty meals throughout the week. With its rich flavors, it stays tasty even after a few days. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the stew cool completely and portion it into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use a microwave for quick thawing.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed for a creamy consistency.
• Stir well and serve hot!

FAQs

If you have any questions about making this delightful stew, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

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

Absolutely! You can substitute vegan cream cheese with coconut cream or cashew cream for a similar creamy texture.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, this stew can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator without losing its delicious flavor.

What can I serve with Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, crusty bread, or even on its own as a hearty meal.

Can I add other vegetables to this stew?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or frozen for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew! It’s not only comforting but also packed with nutritious ingredients that make every bite delightful. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, it’s sure to warm your heart. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; I’m confident you’ll love it just as much as I do! Happy cooking!