Mediterranean White Bean Tomato Stew

Name: Mediterranean White Bean Tomato Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans white beans (such as cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Wholesome Inspiration

I’ve always loved hearty stews, and this Mediterranean White Bean Tomato Stew is one of my all-time favorites. The vibrant flavors of tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs come together to create a comforting dish that warms my soul. I enjoy making this stew when I want something wholesome and filling, and it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings. The best part? It’s easy to prepare and can be made in under an hour. Trust me, you’ll want this dish in your recipe arsenal!

Created by

Tallulah Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:18:37.160Z

When I first experimented with this Mediterranean White Bean Tomato Stew, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such a rich flavor. Using canned tomatoes and beans saves time, allowing the spices and herbs to shine. I particularly love adding fresh basil at the end for a fresh burst of flavor. It beautifully complements the hearty beans and creates a wonderful aroma.

Throughout the years, I’ve made tweaks to the recipe, such as adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. This tiny addition elevates the stew, enhancing its brightness and depth. It’s these little details that bring the dish to life and keep everyone asking for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful medley of Mediterranean flavors in every bite
Hearty and nutritious, yet simple to prepare
Perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed throughout the week

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Mediterranean White Bean Tomato Stew lies in its core ingredients. White beans, such as cannellini or great northern, provide a creamy texture and are rich in protein and fiber. Their earthy flavor allows them to absorb the vibrant spices and aromatics, making each bite satisfying. Using high-quality canned beans is a time-saver, but if you prefer, you can cook dried beans from scratch—just remember to soak them overnight for optimal cooking.

The canned diced tomatoes not only contribute acidity and sweetness but also offer a rich base that enhances the stew's overall flavor profile. When combined with fragrant herbs like oregano and thyme, the dish transforms into a medley of tastes. Feel free to experiment with different herbs if you have a favorite, as they can add their own unique twist to the stew.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Sautéing the onion and garlic in olive oil is crucial for building flavor in this stew. Aim for the onion to become translucent with a slightly golden hue, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This step ensures that the aromatics release their essential oils, creating a fragrant base for your stew. Be mindful not to burn the garlic; it should be added last and just cooked until fragrant, approximately one minute.

When simmering the stew, a gentle simmer is key. Too vigorous a boil can break down the beans and make the stew overly thick. Instead, keep the heat at medium-low, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking. The goal is to meld the flavors over about 25 minutes, allowing the stew to become rich and hearty.

Ingredients

Stew Ingredients

2 cans white beans (such as cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh basil for garnish

These ingredients come together to form a delightful and nourishing stew.

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the Tomatoes and Beans

Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, drained white beans, vegetable broth, oregano, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Simmer and Season

Let the stew simmer for about 25 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste as it cooks, adjusting as needed for flavor.

Serve and Garnish

Once the stew is thick and flavorful, remove it from heat. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil. Enjoy hot with crusty bread or over cooked grains!

Feel free to customize this stew with any additional vegetables you love.

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar just before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

This stew is an excellent candidate for meal prep because its flavors deepen over time. I suggest making it a day in advance; the ingredients will continue to harmonize, making it even more delicious when reheated. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze portions for longer storage, up to 3 months.

When reheating, use a medium heat on the stove or in the microwave. If the stew appears too thick after refrigerating or freezing, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Stir well to prevent uneven heating.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean White Bean Tomato Stew is delightful on its own, but you can elevate the meal by pairing it with crusty bread. A simple artisan loaf, sourdough, or whole-grain bread can help soak up the flavors. Alternatively, try serving it over quinoa, brown rice, or even pasta to make it more filling and varied.

For those who love a touch of zest, a squeeze of lemon over the finished stew can brighten the flavors beautifully. You can also top individual servings with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added creaminess and tang.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! This stew stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be reheated for a quick meal.

→ Is there a way to make this dish vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread, couscous, or rice.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, you can freeze the stew in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.