Italian Bean Kale Stew (Print Version)

Rustic Italian stew with tender beans, kale, and aromatic herbs for a cozy, nutritious meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 - 1 large yellow onion, diced
03 - 2 medium carrots, diced
04 - 2 celery stalks, diced
05 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
06 - 1 large bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped (about 6 cups)

→ Beans & Tomatoes

07 - 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
08 - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices

→ Liquids & Seasonings

09 - 4 cups vegetable broth (gluten-free if needed)
10 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
11 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
12 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish (optional)

14 - Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (omit for vegan)
15 - Chopped fresh parsley

# How to Make It:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 7 minutes.
02 - Incorporate minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add chopped kale and cook, stirring frequently, until kale is just wilted, about 2 minutes.
04 - Add drained cannellini beans, diced tomatoes with juices, vegetable broth, dried oregano, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine.
05 - Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
06 - Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
07 - Ladle stew into bowls and garnish with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Full of vibrant vegetables for a comforting, nourishing meal
  • Easy one-pot preparation makes cleanup simple
02 -
  • This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free as long as you use appropriate broth and omit Parmesan for vegan diets.
  • Kale is best added toward the end of cooking to keep it tender but vibrant in color.
03 -
  • For extra richness, drizzle in a splash of good olive oil just before serving.
  • Add a peeled, diced potato for heartier texture or serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
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