Creamy Cannellini Beans with Lemon and Olive Oil
Introduction
Marco often returns to this dish on quiet afternoons, when the kitchen asks for calm rather than effort. Cannellini beans warm gently in olive oil, softening into something steady and reassuring, while lemon arrives at the end—bright, precise, and awake. A touch of cream smooths the edges, not to overwhelm, but to bring harmony where sharpness might linger.
This is food made for balance: grounding without heaviness, clarity without force. It nourishes from the center outward, settling the body while keeping the mind alert. Simple, intentional, and quietly elegant, this bowl is meant to be eaten slowly—one spoonful at a time—until everything feels aligned again.
Conclusion
In essence, this recipe is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. It showcases how a few carefully selected ingredients can come together to create a dish that is both elegant and comforting. Ideal for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a sophisticated gathering, Creamy Cannellini Beans with Lemon and Olive Oil is a versatile addition to any culinary repertoire. Embrace the art of Mediterranean cooking with this dish, and enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors it brings to your table.
Creamy Cannellini Beans with Lemon and Olive Oil
Description
Enjoy this easy-to-make dish featuring cannellini beans, lemon zest, and olive oil, creating a creamy, savory side or main that pairs well with any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Optional Garnish
Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
-
Gather and Prepare Ingredients
Drain and rinse the canned cannellini beans thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess sodium or preservatives. Set them aside.
Rinsing the beans not only reduces sodium content but also improves the final flavor of the dish. -
Prepare the Lemon
Zest one lemon using a microplane or fine grater, ensuring to only grate the yellow outer layer. After zesting, cut the lemon and squeeze out one teaspoon of juice.
Be careful to avoid the white pith when zesting, as it can add a bitter taste to the dish.
Cooking the Beans
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Heat the Olive Oil
In a medium-sized skillet, heat two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
Heating the oil properly ensures it evenly coats the beans and enhances their flavor. -
Cook the Beans
Add the rinsed cannellini beans to the skillet. Stir them gently to coat with the olive oil and cook for about 4-5 minutes until they are heated through.
Stir the beans occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the pan.
Adding Flavors
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Season the Beans
Sprinkle one teaspoon of dried thyme or Italian seasoning over the beans. Add black pepper to taste and continue to cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Feel free to adjust the amount of seasoning based on personal preference.
Finishing Touches
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Garnish and Serve
Transfer the creamy cannellini beans to a serving dish. Garnish with your choice of grated Parmesan, crushed walnuts, or chili flakes for an added touch of flavor and texture.
Each garnish option adds a unique element to the dish, so choose based on your taste preference.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 488.04kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 37.34g58%
- Saturated Fat 9.51g48%
- Cholesterol 28.88mg10%
- Sodium 752.44mg32%
- Potassium 213.96mg7%
- Total Carbohydrate 23.61g8%
- Dietary Fiber 8.27g34%
- Sugars 1.49g
- Protein 21.96g44%
- Vitamin A 958.22 IU
- Vitamin C 3.04 mg
- Calcium 471.21 mg
- Iron 4.34 mg
- Vitamin D 0.27 mcg
- Vitamin E 2.15 mg
- Vitamin K 14.05 mcg
- Thiamin 0.12 mg
- Riboflavin 0.18 mg
- Niacin 0.68 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.24 mg
- Folate 33.78 mcg
- Vitamin B12 0.37 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 0.35 mg
- Phosphorus 323.49 mg
- Magnesium 65.34 mg
- Zinc 1.88 mg
- Selenium 8.89 mcg
- Copper 0.51 mg
- Manganese 1.1 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For optimal flavor, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil; its fruity notes will complement the creaminess of the beans and the brightness of the lemon zest. Adjust the amount of heavy cream or oat milk to achieve your desired creaminess. Freshly ground black pepper will enhance the dish's complexity. Consider your garnish choice carefully: grated Parmesan will add a savory depth, crushed walnuts will provide a satisfying crunch, and chili flakes will introduce a subtle heat. Serve warm as a side dish or as a light main course.
Essence of the Dish
The Creamy Cannellini Beans with Lemon and Olive Oil is a harmonious blend of simple yet sophisticated flavors that exemplify the beauty of Mediterranean cuisine. The creaminess of the beans, enhanced by the richness of extra virgin olive oil and the subtle zing of lemon zest, creates a comforting yet vibrant dish. The addition of heavy cream or oat milk adds a luxurious texture that balances the zesty and herbal notes brought by lemon juice and dried thyme. This dish is a celebration of fresh, clean flavors that are both satisfying and invigorating.
Personal Reflections
Creating this dish is an experience in itself, as it allows one to appreciate the transformation of humble ingredients into a gourmet offering. The process is a reminder of the joy found in culinary simplicity and the power of quality ingredients. Each time I prepare this recipe, I am transported to a sun-drenched terrace overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, where the air is filled with the scent of fresh herbs and citrus.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served as a side or enjoyed as a main course alongside crusty bread or a fresh green salad. For an added layer of flavor, consider garnishing with grated Parmesan, crushed walnuts, or chili flakes, each offering its unique touch.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the creamy consistency.
Encouragement and Invitation
I encourage you to try this recipe and experience its delightful flavors for yourself. It’s a dish that invites experimentation and personalization, so feel free to make it your own. I would love to hear about your experiences and any unique variations you may have tried. Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or to share your culinary adventures.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of bean instead of cannellini beans?
Yes, you can use other white beans like navy beans or great northern beans, but the texture and flavor might slightly differ.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by using oat milk instead of heavy cream and omitting parmesan if used as a garnish.
What should I serve this dish with?
This dish pairs well with crusty bread, grilled vegetables, or as a side to roasted meats.
How can I store the leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I substitute dried thyme with fresh thyme?
Yes, you can use fresh thyme. Use about 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves as a substitute for the dried thyme.
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