Braised Cannellini Beans With Onions and Arugula

Submitted by Dancer

"Canned beans are one of the few canned foods I really like, and I often use them instead of dried beans in soups, stews, and even salads to save on soaking and cooking time. In this easy recipe, I braise cannellini beans with onions, garlic, and a hint of tomato, and throw in arugula for an earthy flavor and silky texture."

 

• Ready In: 45mins
• Ingredients: 10
• Serves: 4

ingredients

• 1⁄4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1 dried red chili peppers or 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
• 1 medium purple onion, minced
• 1⁄2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon minced Italian parsley
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 bunch arugula, washed, dried, and stemmed
• 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, drained, rinsed thoroughly, and drained again

directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a 1-quart pot over a medium-high flame.
2. Add the garlic and cook 30 seconds, stirring constantly; the garlic should become aromatic and just lightly golden (do not burn it or it will taste acrid).
3. Stir in the chili pepper and cook 15 more seconds.
4. Add the onion and cook, still stirring, about 2 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and soft.
5. Stir in the pepper and parsley and cook 1 more minute.
6. Fold in the rinsed and drained beans, and then stir in the tomato paste.
7. Add enough cool water (or chicken broth if you happen to have it on hand) to cover the beans by 1/4 inch (about 1 and 1/2 cups, depending on the width of your pot).
8. Season with the salt and bring to a gentle boil, uncovered.
9. Cover and lower the heat to medium-low; cook for 5 minutes.
10. Uncover, stir in the arugula, and cover again.
11. Cook for another 15 minutes.
12. Adjust the seasoning if needed and serve hot.

Reviews

[kerrifph]

This is excellant. The whole family loves it! My 11-yr. old licks the plate when we have this. Its hard to describe how wonderful this is. You think "beans and arugula?" It's hearty, filling and comforting, and healthy. It makes a great side dish instead of potatoes or carbs

 

[Cookin4GoodLookin]

Unique ... Made as directed. I may, or may not, make it again.

 

[Peacefulone]

Really good and filling. I made with dandelion greens because its what I had. I added some extra tomato sauce also because it was in the fridge, and used less chicken broth. Thick, rich and healthy! Thanks for posting.

 

[ChefLee]

Wonderful deep, rich spicy tomato flavor!!!! I love this with arugula instead of spinach, so good!!! Just a lovely Italian vegetarian dish, thanks!!!

 

[StrikingEyes00]

This was really good! It came out almost like a soup for me, which I didn't mind, but I was a little surprised about. I loved the flavor and texture of everything and so did my family. I served this as the appetizer to our farewell Soprano's night on Sunday.