Tuscan Beans: One Pot, Two Dinners (Comfort Food the Italian Way)

cannellini beans

🥗Healthier: navy beans

💰Cheaper: pinto beans

Navy beans are lower in calories, while pinto beans are often less expensive.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has similar health benefits, while canola oil is a budget-friendly option.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade broth

💰Cheaper: water

Homemade broth is healthier, while water can be a cost-saving substitute.

red pepper flakes

🥗Healthier: fresh chili

💰Cheaper: black pepper

Fresh chili adds flavor with fewer calories, while black pepper is a common pantry staple.

Soak the dry beans overnight if using dry beans, then drain.

In a large pot, heat the olive oil or lard over medium heat.

Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.

Stir in the soaked beans, crushed tomatoes, white wine, and herbs (rosemary, sage, thyme).

Add salt and pepper to taste, then cover and simmer slowly until the beans are creamy and tender.

Serve the beans on their own with bread for dinner.

For the second dinner, thin the remaining sauce and combine with small pasta like ditalini or gnocchi, cooking until the sauce clings and thickens.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: