Mediterranean White Beans & Greens is a wholesome, savory dish that blends nutrient-dense leafy greens with creamy white beans and fragrant aromatics. Cooked in olive oil and seasoned with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, this simple yet satisfying recipe is perfect as a main course, hearty side dish, or light lunch served with crusty bread. It’s a nourishing and flavorful way to enjoy plant-based ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is as comforting as it is good for you.
Nutritious and filling: High in fiber and plant-based protein from the beans and packed with vitamins from the greens.
Quick and easy: Ready in about 30 minutes with minimal ingredients.
Naturally vegan and gluten-free: Perfect for various dietary needs.
Versatile: Serve as a side, mix with grains, or enjoy as a standalone bowl.
Mediterranean flavor profile: Classic ingredients like garlic, olive oil, and herbs deliver bright, earthy flavor.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
4 cups fresh greens (spinach, kale, or chard), roughly chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Juice of ½ lemon
Optional: chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, or crumbled feta for serving
directions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes, until softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the drained white beans and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the chopped greens, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until greens are wilted and tender.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Serve warm, topped with optional parsley, Parmesan, or feta if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2–4, depending on how it is served (as a main or side).
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
Add grains: Serve over couscous, farro, or quinoa for a more filling meal.
Tomato twist: Add a handful of cherry tomatoes or a splash of crushed tomatoes for a saucy variation.
Add olives or capers: Stir in for extra Mediterranean flair and saltiness.
Protein boost: Top with a fried egg or serve alongside grilled chicken or fish.
Herb blend: Try thyme, rosemary, or za’atar for a unique spin.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.
Add a splash of water or olive oil if the mixture seems dry after storing.
FAQs
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, soak and cook dried beans ahead of time. You’ll need about 1½ cups of cooked beans to replace one can.
Which greens work best?
Spinach, kale, Swiss chard, or a mix of leafy greens all work well in this recipe.
Is this dish vegan?
Yes, the basic recipe is vegan. Just omit optional cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Can I add broth?
Yes, add a splash of vegetable broth for a saucier dish or to help wilt sturdier greens.
How do I make it more filling?
Serve it over grains, add a protein like grilled tofu, or top with a poached egg.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, it freezes well. Let it cool completely before storing in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
What are good pairings for this dish?
Serve with warm pita, crusty bread, grilled chicken, or fish for a Mediterranean-style meal.
Can I make it spicier?
Yes, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Do I need to remove kale stems?
Yes, for tenderness, strip leaves from tough stems before chopping and cooking.
Can I serve this cold?
It’s best warm, but it can also be served as a chilled salad with added olive oil and lemon.
Conclusion
Mediterranean White Beans & Greens is a fast, flavorful, and nourishing dish that showcases the simplicity and richness of Mediterranean cooking. With its wholesome ingredients and vibrant seasonings, it’s perfect as a light lunch, hearty side, or meatless main. Whether you’re looking to eat more plant-based meals or just want a quick, satisfying recipe, this dish is a delicious and dependable choice.
Mediterranean White Beans & Greens
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings
- Category: Side Dish / Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Mediterranean White Beans & Greens recipe is a quick and satisfying plant-based dish made with garlic-sautéed greens, creamy white beans, and vibrant herbs. Perfect as a light main, side dish, or healthy meal prep staple!
Ingredients
This Mediterranean White Beans & Greens recipe is a quick and satisfying plant-based dish made with garlic-sautéed greens, creamy white beans, and vibrant herbs. Perfect as a light main, side dish, or healthy meal prep staple!
Instructions
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small onion, diced
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1 (15 oz) can white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
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4 cups chopped kale, chard, or spinach
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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Juice of ½ lemon
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Optional: 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese or kalamata olives for topping
Notes
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.
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Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Stir in greens and cook until wilted (about 2–3 minutes).
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Add white beans, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper.
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Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring gently, until beans are heated through and everything is well combined.
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Finish with lemon juice and fresh parsley.
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Serve warm as a side or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
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