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Escarole and Beans

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  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course, Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This classic Italian dish is warm, comforting, and full of flavor. Tender escarole is simmered with creamy cannellini beans, garlic, and olive oil for a simple, healthy meal or side. It’s perfect served with crusty bread or over pasta.


Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 head escarole, cleaned and chopped

  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)

  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)


Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

  3. Add the chopped escarole and cook until it begins to wilt, about 3–5 minutes.

  4. Stir in the cannellini beans, chicken broth, and red pepper flakes.

  5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10–15 minutes, until escarole is tender.

  6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

  7. Serve warm, topped with freshly grated Parmesan if desired.


Notes

  • For a heartier meal, serve over pasta or add Italian sausage.

  • Use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian.

  • You can substitute escarole with kale or spinach if needed.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg