Zoe’s Kitchen is a popular Mediterranean-inspired restaurant chain known for its fresh and flavorful dishes. One of their standout recipes is their Easy White Bean recipe, a delicious and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as a side or even as a main course. If you want to recreate this tasty treat at home, read on for the best easy Zoe’s White Bean recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cans of white beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for some heat)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
3. Add dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the skillet, stirring well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
4. Add the white beans to the skillet and stir gently to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and lemon juice, stirring everything together.
6. Reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the beans to soften slightly.
7. Use a potato masher or the back of a fork to roughly mash some of the beans, creating a creamier consistency while still leaving some whole beans intact.
8. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
9. Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
10. Serve the Easy Zoe’s White Bean dish hot as a side with grilled chicken or fish, or even as a vegetarian main course with a side of crusty bread.
Now, let’s move on to some frequently asked questions about Zoe’s Easy White Bean recipe:
1. Can I use dried white beans instead of canned beans?
Yes, you can use dried white beans, but you will need to soak and cook them according to the package instructions before adding them to the recipe.
2. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add diced bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach to enhance the nutritional value and add more flavor.
3. How can I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly, as it does not contain any animal products.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the white beans ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Just reheat them gently on the stovetop before serving.
5. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
6. Can I substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth?
Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth if you prefer a non-vegetarian version. However, keep in mind that it will change the overall flavor of the dish.
7. Can I adjust the spices to my taste?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. Add more paprika for a smokier flavor or increase the cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Now that you have the best easy Zoe’s White Bean recipe and all your questions answered, it’s time to gather the ingredients and start cooking. Enjoy this flavorful and healthy dish that will transport you to the Mediterranean with every bite!