Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Braised Broccoli and Beans Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 59 reviews

  • Author: Sky
  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings
  • Diet: Diabetic

Description

This Braised Broccoli and Beans recipe offers a hearty and flavorful vegetarian dish that's perfect for a nutritious lunch or dinner. Tender broccoli and creamy cannellini beans are combined with aromatic Italian seasonings, garlic, and tangy lemon, all enriched with a touch of parmesan cheese for a satisfying meal. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, it's an ideal diabetic-friendly recipe that balances wholesome ingredients and rich flavors.


Ingredients

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 white onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 lbs broccoli (3 small crowns), chopped
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon

Seasonings and Liquids

  • 1/4 cup olive oil, plus extra for serving
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup vegetable stock

Beans and Cheese

  • 2 (15 oz) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 4 oz shredded parmesan cheese


Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, reduce the heat to medium, and season with salt and pepper. Sauté the onion for about 6 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  2. Add Broccoli: Add the chopped broccoli to the pot and sauté for 2 minutes, allowing it to begin softening and absorb flavors from the aromatics and oil.
  3. Season and Combine: Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine. Add the Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 cup vegetable stock, and the drained and rinsed cannellini beans. Mix everything well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
  4. Braise: Cover the pot with a lid and let the mixture cook for about 4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the beans are warmed through. Stir occasionally and add a splash more vegetable stock if the mixture seems too dry during this process.
  5. Finish with Lemon and Cheese: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and shredded parmesan cheese until well combined and the cheese is slightly melted into the mixture.
  6. Serve: Drizzle extra olive oil over each serving for added richness. Serve immediately while piping hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon zest and juice for bright, fresh flavor enhancement.
  • You can substitute vegetable stock with chicken stock if not vegetarian.
  • For a vegan variation, omit parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 13 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired