Easy Vegan Sun-Dried Tomato Kale and White Bean Skillet

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Sometimes, I dream of a dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug, yet as vibrant as a sunlit garden in spring. This Easy Vegan Sun-Dried Tomato Kale and White Bean Skillet captures that feeling perfectly—with its rich, tangy sun-dried tomatoes mingling alongside the earthy kale and tender white beans, each bite feels like a little celebration. It’s like a cozy sweater for your taste buds, and honestly, who doesn’t need that once in a while?

Steps

  1. Begin by draining and rinsing the cannellini beans. Roughly chop the sun-dried tomatoes and set them aside.
  2. Prepare a dressing by mixing 2 tablespoons of the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes with apple cider vinegar, dried basil, salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Set this mixture aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until the garlic becomes soft and aromatic.
  4. Add the chopped kale and a couple of tablespoons of water to the skillet. Stir and cook until the kale wilts, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
  5. Once the kale has wilted, add the drained white beans and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir to combine, continuing to cook until the beans are warmed through.
  6. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture in the skillet. Stir to ensure everything is evenly coated, add salt to taste, and serve warm.

Ingredients

  • 2 cans (15 oz. each) of cannellini beans, drained
  • 1/2 of a 7 oz. jar of sun-dried tomatoes in oil, roughly chopped
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 oz. fresh kale, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons water

Nutritional Values

Calories: 469.33kcal | Carbohydrates: 55.33g | Protein: 21.35g | Fat: 19.35g | Sodium: 698.08mg | Fiber: 16.45g | Sugars: N/A | Cholesterol: N/A

FAQ

  • Can I use a different leafy green instead of kale?
  • Yes, you can substitute kale with spinach. However, it’s best to stir in the spinach at the end of cooking as it wilts very quickly.
  • Is this dish meant to be a side or a main course?
  • This versatile dish can be served as either. It is hearty enough to be enjoyed as a vegetarian main course, but can also be served in smaller portions as a rich side dish alongside options like Baked Ziti or Balsamic Chicken and Mushrooms.
  • What additional toppings would complement this dish?
  • If you want to enhance the flavors, you could add cheeses like Parmesan, feta, or goat cheese. For a non-vegetarian option, consider adding bacon or crumbled Italian sausage. Pine nuts could also be a great addition if cost is not a concern.
  • Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary, and why are they used in this recipe?
  • While sun-dried tomatoes can be more expensive, they add a rich, concentrated flavor that elevates the dish. They are paired with more affordable ingredients to create a balanced, cost-effective meal.
  • What type of bread pairs well with this skillet?
  • This dish is delicious when served with crusty garlic bread or a soft piece of naan, making for a satisfying and complete meal.

Tips

  • Consider adding toppings like Parmesan, feta, or goat cheese for extra flavor. If you prefer a non-vegetarian dish, try incorporating bacon or crumbled Italian sausage.
  • If kale isn’t to your taste, substitute it with spinach. Be sure to add the spinach at the end of cooking, as it wilts quickly.
  • This dish is versatile and can serve as a hearty main course or a satisfying side dish. Pair it with dishes like Baked Ziti or Balsamic Chicken and Mushrooms for a complete meal.
  • To enhance the dish, serve it with crusty garlic bread or naan, which complements the flavors and makes it more filling.

Equipment

  • Large skillet – If you don’t already have a suitable one, a large skillet is essential for sautéing the ingredients together.
  • Garlic press – Useful for mincing garlic quickly and efficiently.
  • Chef’s knife – A good quality knife is important for chopping ingredients like kale and sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Cutting board – A durable cutting board is needed for prepping ingredients.
  • Measuring spoons – Accurate measurement of ingredients like apple cider vinegar and spices is important for flavor balance.

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