Mediterranean White Bean Stew

Name: Mediterranean White Bean Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Food Favorites

I love making Mediterranean White Bean Stew, especially when I want something hearty yet healthy. This dish brims with nourishing ingredients like creamy white beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all simmered together to create a taste that transports me straight to the Mediterranean coast. It’s not just delicious; it's also incredibly flexible—perfect for using up whatever leftover veggies I have in my fridge, making it a fantastic zero-waste meal. Plus, it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights.

Created by

June Weatherby

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:33:36.107Z

Whenever I cook this Mediterranean White Bean Stew, I feel like I’m enjoying a taste of summer in the Mediterranean. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how vibrant the flavors are from the sun-ripened tomatoes and fresh herbs.

I've tried various additions, and I've found that a splash of lemon juice at the end elevates the dish significantly, giving it a brightness that complements the rich beans perfectly. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a comforting meal that everyone will adore.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Packed with nutrients and fiber from white beans and vegetables
Bursting with Mediterranean flavors that brighten your day
A quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy nights

Understanding the Ingredients

The white beans are the star of this dish, offering creaminess and a hearty texture that serves as a perfect base. They are packed with protein and fiber, ensuring that this stew is both filling and nutritious. If you're looking to lower the sodium content, consider using dried beans. Just soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the stew. This will enhance the stew's flavor and maintain its healthy profile.

Fresh vegetables add not only nutrition but also layers of flavor and texture to the stew. The aromatic onion and garlic are essential for building a robust foundation of flavor, while celery and carrot contribute sweetness and crunch. Feel free to swap seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers; just aim for a similar cut so that everything cooks evenly. This adaptability makes it a great option for using whatever you have on hand.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Sautéing the vegetables in olive oil first is a crucial step that unlocks their flavors, creating a fragrant base for the stew. Make sure to keep the heat at medium; too high can burn the garlic and onion, leading to a bitter taste. You'll know it's ready when the onion becomes translucent and everything is slightly softened. This method creates a depth of flavor that simmering alone cannot achieve.

When adding the beans and tomatoes, it's essential to stir thoroughly to incorporate all the seasonings. Bringing it to a gentle simmer allows the flavors to meld, which usually takes about 15 minutes. During this time, the mixture should bubble gently—this is key to achieving a stew-like consistency. If it appears too watery, simply allow it to simmer a bit longer, letting excess liquid evaporate and enhancing the flavors further.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious stew:

Ingredients

2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 carrot, diced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure to have everything prepped before starting to cook!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up this stew:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, celery, and carrot, and sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.

Add Beans and Tomatoes

Stir in the white beans, diced tomatoes, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Simmer

Let the stew simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and flavors meld.

Finish with Lemon

Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and enjoy with crusty bread!

Enjoy your homemade Mediterranean White Bean Stew!

Pro Tips

For added depth, consider incorporating kale or spinach into the stew during the last few minutes of cooking. You can also serve it with feta cheese on top for extra flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Mediterranean White Bean Stew is a fantastic make-ahead meal. It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights. Simply cool the stew completely before transferring it to an airtight container to preserve its flavors. For long-term storage, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. This allows you to enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal on days when time is tight.

When reheating, gently warm the stew on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it seems too thick after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. A quick stir of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon just before serving rejuvenates the flavors beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete Mediterranean experience, serve your stew with crusty whole-grain bread or over a bed of quinoa for added texture and nutrition. Adding a side salad with mixed greens and a simple vinaigrette can offer a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the stew. I love to sprinkle extra lemon juice on my portion to brighten up every bite.

Feel free to customize your toppings! A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta can complement the stew's flavors remarkably well. For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding olives or capers just before serving. Each variation allows you to explore different tastes, making this stew a versatile addition to your meal rotation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, this stew freezes well! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ What can I substitute for white beans?

You can use chickpeas or cannellini beans as a substitute, depending on your preference.

→ How do I make this vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian, as it uses plant-based ingredients. Ensure that any side dishes are also vegetarian.

→ Can I add meat to this stew?

Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken or sausage to make it heartier. Just add it during the simmering step.