If you're searching for a dish that perfectly balances comfort and nutrition, look no further than our delightful Italian Beans and Rice! This hearty recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a breeze to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. With its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, you'll find yourself coming back for seconds—and thirds! Ready to transform your dinner routine? Dive into this easy, satisfying recipe that promises to impress your family and friends alike!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients on a clean workspace. This includes 1 cup of white rice, 2 cups of vegetable broth, 1 can of cannellini beans (drained and rinsed), 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, salt and pepper to taste, and fresh basil for garnish.
- In a medium-sized pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn.
- Stir in the dried oregano, allowing it to cook with the onion and garlic for about 30 seconds to release its flavors.
- Next, add the uncooked white rice to the pot, stirring well to coat the rice with the oil and the aromatic mixture. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir the mixture well to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- During the last 5 minutes of cooking, gently fold in the drained and rinsed cannellini beans. This will warm them through without breaking them apart.
- Once the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed, remove the pot from heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.
- Let the dish sit covered for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, fluff the rice and beans with a fork. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve the Italian Beans and Rice warm, either as a main dish or as a hearty side. Enjoy your meal!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onions and mince the garlic ahead of time. You can even cook the rice in advance and simply reheat it with the other ingredients for a quick meal.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor kick, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the tomatoes.
- Fresh Herbs: Don’t skimp on the fresh basil! It not only adds a beautiful pop of color but also enhances the dish’s aroma and flavor.
- Protein Power: If you want to make this dish even heartier, consider adding cooked sausage or grilled chicken for a protein boost.
- Leftover Love: This dish keeps well in the fridge for a few days, so feel free to make a larger batch. It’s perfect for meal prep or as leftovers for lunch!
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your Italian Beans and Rice with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
