Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty meal that’s as good for your soul as it is for your body, then this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is just what you need! This recipe has become a beloved favorite in my kitchen. It’s quick to whip up, taking only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend lunch. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied.

What I love most about this stew is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting friends or just cooking for yourself, it never disappoints. The creamy texture combined with the tangy tomatoes and protein-rich beans makes each bite delightful. Let me show you how easy it is to make this delicious vegan dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for when you’re short on time.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with healthy veggies and protein-rich white beans to keep you energized.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this creamy and flavorful stew.
• Versatile Meal Options: Serve it over rice, quinoa, or enjoy it on its own—there’s no wrong way!
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare a big batch for leftovers that taste even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is a breeze! You’ll find these simple and wholesome items at your local grocery store. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating those rich flavors we love.

Fresh Ingredients

• 1 small yellow onion, sliced
• 8 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

Beans & Broth

• 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, or other white beans of choice, drained and rinsed
• 1¼ cup vegetable broth

Thickeners & Creaminess

• 1 tablespoon arrowroot starch, tapioca starch, or cornstarch
• 2 cups baby greens, like baby arugula or spinach
• ¼ cup vegan cream cheese (or coconut cream/cashew cream)

Seasonings & Garnish

• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 small lemon, juiced
• ¼ cup fresh basil, sliced, to garnish

Variations

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce if you enjoy a little heat in your stew.
• Change the Greens: Swap baby arugula or spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different texture.
• Alternate the Creaminess: Use cashew cream instead of vegan cream cheese for a nutty twist.

How to Make Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil. Sauté the sliced onion for about 3 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. This step builds a flavorful base for our stew. Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook them down for another 5 minutes until they soften beautifully.

Step 2: Build Flavor with Garlic and Tomatoes

Now it’s time to add in the minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir constantly for about one minute until everything is fragrant and the tomato paste darkens slightly. This will deepen the flavor of our stew!

Step 3: Thicken the Broth

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the arrowroot starch with a splash of vegetable broth until smooth. Mix this back into the rest of the broth and pour it into the pan with our sautéed veggies and beans. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Add Creaminess

Stir in the vegan cream cheese (or your chosen alternative) until melted into the stew. Mixing in baby greens at this point adds vibrant color and nutrients—let them cook down until just wilted, which takes about one minute.

Step 5: Final Touches

Finish off by squeezing in fresh lemon juice and seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t forget to garnish with sliced basil before serving!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

This creamy tomato white bean stew can be enjoyed over rice, quinoa, or simply on its own—whatever suits your mood! Enjoy every bite of this nourishing dish!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

You’re going to love how easy it is to make this stew, but a few extra tips will help you take it to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce like cherry tomatoes and greens not only enhance the flavor but also boost the nutritional value of your stew.
• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, simply add a bit more arrowroot starch or let it simmer longer. A thicker consistency can make every bite feel even heartier!
• Customize your beans: Feel free to substitute cannellini beans with other white beans like navy or great northern beans. Each type brings its own texture and flavor.
• Experiment with spices: While this recipe is delicious as is, adding spices like smoked paprika or red pepper flakes can give your stew an exciting kick!
• Make ahead and store: This stew tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy them for lunch or dinner during the week.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Serving this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew can be just as fun as making it! Here are some delightful ideas to present this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of sliced fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and color that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
• Squeeze of lemon: A little extra lemon juice right before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.
• Nutritional yeast: For a cheesy flavor without dairy, sprinkle some nutritional yeast on top for added depth.

Side Dishes

• Crusty whole grain bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy stew, crusty bread adds a satisfying crunch that balances out the softness of the dish.
• Quinoa salad: Toss together quinoa with fresh veggies, herbs, and lemon dressing for a light and nutritious side that complements the stew’s richness.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a pop of color and nutrition, making it an excellent accompaniment that also adds texture.
• Garlic roasted potatoes: Crispy garlic-roasted potatoes provide hearty satisfaction and pair wonderfully with the creamy stew.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew! It’s perfect for those busy weekdays or cozy weekends when you want something warm and fulfilling. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, making your lunch or dinner planning a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• For best flavor, consume within the first few days.

Freezing

• Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Add a splash of vegetable broth if you find it’s thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew without cream cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute with coconut cream or cashew cream for a rich texture without using cream cheese.

How long does Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew last in the fridge?

The stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh but will still taste great after a few days!

What can I serve with Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

This stew pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, crusty bread, or even on its own. It’s versatile and satisfying!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew! Its comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients are sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, it’s a delightful dish that everyone will love. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me!