White beans happen to be my favorite type of beans, even though I rarely eat them. As for eating beans, we usually eat chili in the winter, and I regularly toss black beans into my taco meat to stretch it and make it go further.
For this recipe, these humble white beans become a little more special when infused with the flavors of garlic, fresh herbs, and spices, then topped off by a drizzle of the high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
This classic side dish pairs well with any number of entrees, including many types of chicken, beef, pork, and seafood. When making this dish, it’s always a good idea to prepare EXTRA. Leftover beans can be added to salads, stews, and soups.
(NOTE: If you’re following the Trim Healthy Mama plan like I do, then skip the oil and pair this dish with a low fat meat.)
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Tuscan White Beans with Fresh Sage
Recipe Notes
Prep time: 10 minutes + soaking time Cook time: 1½ - 2 hours Servings: approximately 6½ -7 cups
Time-Saving Tip: If you don’t have time to soak beans overnight, add them to a large pot and cover with 3” of cold water. Bring to a rapid boil over high heat for one minute, then remove from heat. Cover and set aside for at least one hour before draining.
Ingredients:
3 c. dried white beans (preferably cannellini), rinsed and picked over Cold water, to cover
2 T. olive oil
6-8 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
2 bay leaves
10-12 large fresh sage leaves
2 large sprigs fresh thyme
2 large sprigs fresh rosemary
2 t. sea salt
15-20 whole black peppercorns
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
2 T. high-quality extra virgin olive oil
Directions:
1. Add rinsed beans to a large bowl and cover with cold water. Cover and set aside for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse beans and transfer to a large stock pot or Dutch oven. Cover with 2-3 inches of cold water and add 2 tablespoons regular olive oil, garlic, bay leaves, fresh herbs, salt, and black peppercorns. Bring to a low boil for one minute over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low. Remove and discard any foam that collects on the surface while boiling.
3. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 1 to 1½ hours or until beans are tender. Remove from heat and let beans cool in the pot with the cooking liquid for 15-20 minutes.
Note: Actual cooking time will depend on the size and age of the beans. Smaller, fresher beans will take less time than larger, older ones. Check for doneness after 45 minutes and adjust cooking time accordingly. Beans should be tender, but not mushy.
4. Carefully drain beans, reserving some of the liquid to use in soups or stews, if desired. Remove and discard the solids from the cooking process before transferring the beans to a serving container. Season with salt and black pepper, if desired, and drizzle with high-quality olive oil to serve. Enjoy!
