Mediterranean White Beans & Greens is a wholesome, savory dish that blends nutrient-dense leafy greens with creamy white beans and fragrant aromatics. Cooked in olive oil and seasoned with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, this simple yet satisfying recipe is perfect as a main course, hearty side dish, or light lunch served with crusty bread. It’s a nourishing and flavorful way to enjoy plant-based ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is as comforting as it is good for you.
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Nutritious and filling: High in fiber and plant-based protein from the beans and packed with vitamins from the greens.
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Quick and easy: Ready in about 30 minutes with minimal ingredients.
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Naturally vegan and gluten-free: Perfect for various dietary needs.
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Versatile: Serve as a side, mix with grains, or enjoy as a standalone bowl.
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Mediterranean flavor profile: Classic ingredients like garlic, olive oil, and herbs deliver bright, earthy flavor.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small onion, diced
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1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
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4 cups fresh greens (spinach, kale, or chard), roughly chopped
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Juice of ½ lemon
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Optional: chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, or crumbled feta for serving
directions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes, until softened and translucent.
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Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add the drained white beans and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Add the chopped greens, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until greens are wilted and tender.
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Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
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Serve warm, topped with optional parsley, Parmesan, or feta if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2–4, depending on how it is served (as a main or side).
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
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Add grains: Serve over couscous, farro, or quinoa for a more filling meal.
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Tomato twist: Add a handful of cherry tomatoes or a splash of crushed tomatoes for a saucy variation.
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Add olives or capers: Stir in for extra Mediterranean flair and saltiness.
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Protein boost: Top with a fried egg or serve alongside grilled chicken or fish.
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Herb blend: Try thyme, rosemary, or za’atar for a unique spin.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.
Add a splash of water or olive oil if the mixture seems dry after storing.
FAQs
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, soak and cook dried beans ahead of time. You’ll need about 1½ cups of cooked beans to replace one can.
Which greens work best?
Spinach, kale, Swiss chard, or a mix of leafy greens all work well in this recipe.
Is this dish vegan?
Yes, the basic recipe is vegan. Just omit optional cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Can I add broth?
Yes, add a splash of vegetable broth for a saucier dish or to help wilt sturdier greens.
How do I make it more filling?
Serve it over grains, add a protein like grilled tofu, or top with a poached egg.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, it freezes well. Let it cool completely before storing in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
What are good pairings for this dish?
Serve with warm pita, crusty bread, grilled chicken, or fish for a Mediterranean-style meal.
Can I make it spicier?
Yes, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Do I need to remove kale stems?
Yes, for tenderness, strip leaves from tough stems before chopping and cooking.
Can I serve this cold?
It’s best warm, but it can also be served as a chilled salad with added olive oil and lemon.
Conclusion
Mediterranean White Beans & Greens is a fast, flavorful, and nourishing dish that showcases the simplicity and richness of Mediterranean cooking. With its wholesome ingredients and vibrant seasonings, it’s perfect as a light lunch, hearty side, or meatless main. Whether you’re looking to eat more plant-based meals or just want a quick, satisfying recipe, this dish is a delicious and dependable choice.
Print
Mediterranean White Beans & Greens
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Mediterranean White Beans & Greens recipe is a quick and satisfying plant-based dish made with garlic-sautéed greens, creamy white beans, and vibrant herbs. Perfect as a light main, side dish, or healthy meal prep staple!
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 (15 oz) can white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
4 cups chopped kale, chard, or spinach
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese or kalamata olives for topping
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.
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Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Stir in greens and cook until wilted (about 2–3 minutes).
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Add white beans, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper.
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Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring gently, until beans are heated through and everything is well combined.
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Finish with lemon juice and fresh parsley.
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Serve warm as a side or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
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Swap in arugula or beet greens depending on what you have.
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Great topped with a poached egg or served over rice or quinoa.
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Easily doubled for meal prep or larger groups.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish / Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
