Beans and Greens

Beans and Greens is a versatile and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavors of beans with the vibrant taste of greens. This recipe offers a variety of options for beans and greens, allowing you to customize it according to your preferences and what you have on hand. The beans are cooked until tender and creamy, while the greens are added towards the end to maintain their silky texture. With the addition of garlic, olive oil, and a garnish of Parmesan cheese or fried bread crumbs, this dish is elevated to a satisfying and flavorful meal.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: 1 to 21/2 hours, depending on the bean

INGREDIENTS:

• 8 ounces dried white beans or chickpeas, washed, picked over, and soaked if desired
• 1 medium onion, unpeeled
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 clove
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 bunch (about 1 1/2 pounds) broccoli raab or other greens, well washed and roughly chopped (remove stems over 1/4 inch thick)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic, or more to taste
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, or more to taste
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese or Fried Bread Crumbs, or both, for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a large pot, place the beans and add enough water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
2. Cut a slit in the onion and insert the bay leaf. Insert the clove into the onion and place it in the pot with the beans.
3. Adjust the heat to a gentle simmer and partially cover the pot. Cook the beans, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the type of bean and whether they were soaked. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Continue cooking the beans, stirring occasionally and adding water if necessary, until they are tender but still intact. The cooking time will be approximately the same as the time it took for the beans to begin softening.
5. Add the chopped greens to the pot and cook until they are tender. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the greens’ stems, ranging from 10 to 30 minutes. If you prefer a soupier consistency, add more water.
6. Remove the onion from the pot. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
7. About 3 minutes before serving, add the minced garlic and extra virgin olive oil to the pot and stir to incorporate the flavors.
8. Spoon the beans and greens into individual bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, fried bread crumbs, or both.
9. Serve the Beans and Greens immediately.

VARIATIONS:

• Beans and Greens with Sausage: Brown 1/2 to 1 pound of sliced or crumbled sausage in a skillet before adding it to the pot with the beans. Cook the beans and sausage together until tender. Adjust the seasoning and serve as directed.
• Beans and Greens with Tomatoes: Add 1 cup of chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned) to the pot along with the greens. Continue cooking until the tomatoes are heated through and the greens are tender. Adjust the seasoning and serve as directed.
• Beans and Greens with Lemon: Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the cooked beans and greens just before serving. The citrusy brightness adds a refreshing twist to the dish.

USES:

• Enjoy Beans and Greens as a satisfying main course, accompanied by crusty bread or served over cooked grains like rice or quinoa.
• Serve it as a nutritious side dish alongside roasted meats or grilled fish.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for a quick and hearty lunch option.
• Experiment with different types of beans and greens to create new flavor combinations and variations.
• This dish pairs well with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added depth of flavor.

Beans and Greens is a delightful and nourishing dish that showcases the harmonious pairing of creamy beans and tender greens. The recipe allows for versatility and personalization, whether you choose white beans, chickpeas, or other varieties, as well as your preferred type of greens. With simple ingredients and a relatively hands-off cooking process, this dish can be enjoyed as a main course or a flavorful side. Elevate it with variations like sausage or tomatoes, or keep it simple and let the beans and greens shine on their own. Whether served hot or at room temperature, Beans and Greens is a hearty and satisfying addition to any meal.