Save A hearty, rustic stew featuring tender beans, vibrant kale, and aromatic Italian flavors—perfect for a cozy, nutritious meal.
I first made this stew on a chilly evening & was amazed by how the simple ingredients came together into a nourishing bowl that warmed our family from the inside out. It quickly became a regular comfort food in our house.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Yellow onion: 1 large, diced
- Carrots: 2 medium, diced
- Celery: 2 stalks, diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Kale: 1 large bunch, stems removed and leaves chopped (about 6 cups)
- Cannellini beans: 2 cans (15 oz each), drained and rinsed
- Diced tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz), with juices
- Vegetable broth: 4 cups (gluten-free if needed)
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: for garnish (omit for vegan)
- Chopped fresh parsley: for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 7 minutes.
- Add garlic and kale:
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add chopped kale and cook, stirring, until slightly wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Add beans and tomatoes:
- Add cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the stew:
- Bring 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.
- Season and serve:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle stew into bowls and garnish with Parmesan and parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Save My kids love scooping extra beans from their bowls and adding lots of fresh parsley. It always brings laughter and second helpings around the table.
Required Tools
Large soup pot or Dutch oven, cutting board and knife, wooden spoon or spatula, and ladle make prep and serving simple.
Allergen Information
Contains none inherently. Always check broth and cheese labels to avoid hidden dairy or gluten. Parmesan adds flavor, but omit for vegan needs.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 310 calories, 7 g total fat, 48 g carbohydrates, and 14 g protein for a balanced, hearty meal.
Save Enjoy your hot bowl of Italian bean & kale stew—it's sure to become a weeknight favorite loaded with comfort and flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of beans are used?
Drain and rinse two cans of cannellini beans, which create a creamy texture and mild flavor.
- → Can I make it vegan?
Yes, simply omit the Parmesan garnish and ensure your broth is dairy-free.
- → How long should the stew simmer?
Simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and vegetables to soften.
- → What herbs enhance the stew's flavor?
Dried oregano and thyme provide classic Italian aroma, complemented by optional crushed red pepper flakes for a mild heat.
- → Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, for added heartiness, diced potatoes can be added along with the carrots.