Mediterranean White Bean Tomato Stew

Name: Mediterranean White Bean Tomato Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup fresh spinach leaves

Highlighted under: Cultural World Food Collection

I absolutely love whipping up a comforting pot of Mediterranean White Bean Tomato Stew. The combination of tender white beans, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a heartwarming dish that makes me feel like I'm sitting in a sun-drenched café by the coast. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also lets those vibrant flavors shine. Perfect for chilly evenings or even light summer days, this stew brings a taste of the Mediterranean right into my kitchen.

Created by

Ophelia Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:42:35.236Z

When I first experimented with this stew, I wasn't sure if I could elevate simple ingredients into something truly satisfying. After several attempts, I learned that letting the ingredients caramelize slightly brings out their natural sweetness, which is key to achieving that wonderful depth of flavor. I was thrilled to find that a splash of balsamic vinegar just before serving gives it a delightful tang.

This Mediterranean White Bean Tomato Stew is comforting and nutritious. Adding a handful of fresh spinach at the end not only boosts its health benefits but also adds a lovely burst of color. It quickly became one of my go-to dishes when I want something filling yet healthy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, comforting flavors that evoke the Mediterranean coast
Healthy, plant-based ingredients that are satisfying without being heavy
Perfectly customizable — add your favorite veggies or spices!

Building Flavor Depth

To create a layered flavor profile in your Mediterranean White Bean Tomato Stew, start by making sure to adequately sauté your onions until they become translucent. This step not only softens the onion but also allows its natural sugars to caramelize, enhancing the sweetness of the base. Take care not to rush this step; if you see your onions starting to brown, lower the heat to prevent burning and bitterness from developing.

When adding garlic, it’s crucial to cook it just until fragrant, usually about a minute. This prevents it from becoming bitter while still allowing those aromatic oils to infuse the stew. If garlic is overcooked, it can dominate the stew with an acrid flavor rather than contribute a gentle warmth. Timing is key!

Ingredient Variations

While the recipe calls for canned white beans, you can easily substitute them with cooked dried beans for a fresher taste. If you choose this route, remember to soak and cook your beans in advance, as this will add an additional step to your preparation. I personally love using cannellini beans for their creamy texture, but northern beans will also work well and maintain the stew’s heartiness.

For a touch of brightness, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving. This small addition can elevate the entire dish by complementing the richness of the beans and tomatoes. You can also toss in other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, which will cook down nicely in the broth and add even more nutrition and flavor.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

This stew is delightful on its own but can be complemented with crusty bread, providing a wonderful contrast in texture. Drizzling a bit of extra virgin olive oil over each bowl just before serving enhances the overall enjoyment and ties in the Mediterranean theme beautifully. For an added kick, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can provide warmth without overwhelming the stew's delicate flavors.

If you have leftovers, they store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This dish also freezes beautifully; allow it to cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth to regain the desired texture and prevent it from becoming too thick.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup fresh spinach leaves

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Herbs

Mix in the diced tomatoes, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices.

Incorporate Beans and Broth

Add the rinsed white beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Finish with Spinach

Just before serving, stir in the fresh spinach leaves and let them wilt for about 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serving Suggestions

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider blending a portion of the stew for a creamier texture. Serve with crusty bread for the perfect hearty meal!

Common Troubleshooting

Sometimes, you may find that your stew is too thick. If that happens, don't hesitate to add a bit more vegetable broth or water to thin it out to your preferred consistency. Conversely, if your stew is too watery, allow it to simmer uncovered for a while longer to reduce the liquid and concentrate the flavors.

If you find that the flavors are too mild, consider adjusting your seasoning. A pinch more of salt or a dash of vinegar can brighten the flavors considerably. Start with small increments and taste as you go to avoid overpowering the stew.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time on busy days, you can prepare all your ingredients in advance. Chop the onions, garlic, and tomatoes, and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days ahead. You can also pre-measure your spices and beans, ensuring a smooth cooking process when you're ready to whip up the stew.

Another make-ahead tip is to double the recipe. Not only will you have an easy meal on hand for later in the week, but the flavors in this stew improve after a day in the refrigerator, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook the dried beans beforehand to ensure they are tender.

→ Is this stew suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! The stew freezes well, so you can double the batch and enjoy it later.

→ What can I substitute for spinach?

Kale or Swiss chard are great alternatives. Just ensure they are cooked until tender.

→ Can I make this dish spicy?

Sure! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.