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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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