Description
This Marinated White Beans recipe features tender white beans soaked in a vibrant, tangy marinade filled with fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil. Perfect as a flavorful side dish or a light, protein-packed salad, these marinated beans offer a Mediterranean-inspired taste that blends beautifully with crusty bread or green salads. Easy to prepare ahead, this recipe is ideal for a healthy, make-ahead dish that enhances the natural creaminess of white beans with zesty and aromatic notes.
Ingredients
Beans
- 2 cups dried white beans (cannellini or navy beans)
- 6 cups water (for soaking and cooking beans)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt, to taste
Marinade
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Soak the beans: Rinse the dried white beans thoroughly. Place them in a large bowl and cover with water. Soak overnight or for at least 8 hours to soften the beans.
- Cook the beans: Drain and rinse the soaked beans. In a large saucepan, add the beans, fresh water to cover by about 2 inches, and a bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 1 to 1.5 hours or until the beans are tender but not mushy. Add salt during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Drain the beans and discard the bay leaf. Allow beans to cool.
- Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt until well combined.
- Combine beans and marinade: Transfer the cooled beans to a serving bowl or container. Pour the marinade over the beans and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Marinate: Cover and refrigerate the beans for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Give the beans a final toss before serving as a side dish, salad topping, or with crusty bread.
Notes
- For quicker preparation, canned white beans can be used; simply drain and rinse, then marinate directly.
- Adjust garlic and spice levels to your preference.
- This dish keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days and flavors improve over time.
- Try adding chopped fresh rosemary or thyme for variation.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus overnight soaking time)
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Salad / Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
