Storage & Serving Suggestions
How to Store
Let the stew cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavor becomes even better overnight as the beans, herbs, tomatoes, and broth blend together.
How to Freeze
This stew freezes well for up to 3 months. Freeze it without fresh herbs or Parmesan topping, then add those after reheating for the best flavor and texture.
How to Reheat
Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the stew has thickened too much in the fridge.
What to Serve With It
Serve this stew with crusty bread, garlic toast, focaccia, grilled cheese, roasted vegetables, a green salad, or a simple chicken side. For a cozy fall dinner, pair it with warm bread and an apple dessert.
Recipe Card: Tuscan White Bean Stew for Easy Fall Dinners
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can diced tomatoes, 14.5 ounces
- 3 cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups chopped kale or spinach
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Parmesan cheese for serving, optional
- Fresh parsley or basil for serving, optional
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until slightly softened.
- Stir in garlic and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add diced tomatoes, white beans, broth, Italian seasoning, rosemary, red pepper flakes, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Mash some of the beans in the pot to thicken the stew.
- Stir in kale or spinach and cook until wilted.
- Remove bay leaf, stir in lemon juice, adjust seasoning, and serve warm.
- Top with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
For a creamier stew, mash more beans or blend one cup of the stew and stir it back into the pot. For a heartier version, add cooked chicken sausage, shredded chicken, or roasted vegetables.
Final Bite
This Tuscan White Bean Stew for Easy Fall Dinners is cozy, simple, and full of rustic flavor. It is the kind of meal that feels warm and comforting without being complicated.
If you try it, leave a comment with your favorite topping. Parmesan, fresh basil, parsley, chili flakes, lemon zest, or toasted bread all make this stew even better.
