Looking for a hearty, comforting, and nutritious dish that’s packed with flavor but free from added oils and salt? This "Giant Baked Beans in Tomato Sauce" recipe is perfect for a wholesome meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste. Using tender cannellini beans and a rich, savory tomato sauce, this dish is brimming with natural goodness. Plus, with a few simple ingredients and a quick simmer, it’s an easy and satisfying option for a cozy dinner or a plant-based side.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked cannellini beans (or 2 cans, rinsed)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (no salt added)
- 1/4 cup tomato paste (no salt added)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp dried dill (or 1 tbsp fresh dill)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper (optional)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp date syrup (optional for sweetness)
- 1/2 tsp apple cider vinegar (optional for acidity balance)
Instructions:
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Sauté the onions and garlic: In a large pan, add the chopped onions and garlic with a splash of water. Sauté over medium heat, stirring often, until the onions are soft and translucent. Be sure to add water as needed to prevent the pan from burning.
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Prepare the tomato sauce: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and water to the pan. Stir well to combine.
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Season the sauce: Add the dill, parsley, black pepper, and crushed red pepper (if using). For an optional touch of sweetness, add a small amount of date syrup. This helps balance out the acidity from the tomatoes.
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Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a bit more water to reach your desired consistency.
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Combine the beans: Add the cooked cannellini beans to the pan and stir gently to coat them in the tomato sauce. Let the mixture simmer for another 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together beautifully.
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Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. For a bit more tang, add a splash of apple cider vinegar just before serving.
While these baked beans can be enjoyed with just about anything, my favorite way to have them is on toast! To make bean toast, you can get creative, but here's my go-to: toast your favorite whole wheat or gluten-free bread, spread some black garlic, pile on lots of lettuce, top with baked beans, sprinkle with pine nuts—and there you have it, an easy filling and nutritious meal!
Enjoy your comforting, oil-free, and salt-free "Giant Baked Beans in Tomato Sauce"! Perfect for a healthy meal that’s big on flavor.
XOXO,
Cara