This Gigante Beans recipe is a hearty, flavorful dish that features tender gigante beans cooked with aromatic vegetables, fresh herbs, and spices. With its Mediterranean-inspired flavors, this dish is perfect as a side or even a light main course. The combination of anise seed, lemon zest, and fresh thyme adds a bright and savory twist, making it a delicious and healthy option for any meal.
Gigante Beans
Course: Sides, MainCuisine: MediterraneanServings
4
servingsPrep time
10
minutesCooking time
1
hourCalories
320
kcalIngredients
3/4 cup dried gigante beans
2 bay leaves
Coarse salt and ground pepper, to taste
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 small onion, cut into 1/4-inch dice (3/4 cup)
1 large carrot, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch dice (3/4 cup)
1 large stalk celery, cut into 1/4-inch dice
1 large garlic clove, chopped
3/4 teaspoon anise seed
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 1/2 teaspoons grated lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
3/4 cup parsley, chopped
Directions
- Prepare the beans: Rinse the dried gigante beans and place them in a large bowl. Cover with water and let them soak overnight. Drain and rinse the beans the next day.
- Cook the beans: In a large pot, combine the soaked beans, bay leaves, and enough water to cover the beans by about 2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beans are tender. Add a pinch of coarse salt during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Drain the beans, discard the bay leaves, and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the chopped garlic, anise seed, and red pepper flakes, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine the beans and vegetables: Add the cooked gigante beans to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the grated lemon zest, fresh thyme, and half of the chopped parsley. Cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with the remaining parsley. Drizzle with a little extra-virgin olive oil before serving.
Notes
- Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 240mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 7g
This Gigante Beans dish is a delightful combination of tender beans and savory vegetables, infused with fresh herbs and spices. Whether served as a side dish or as the main star of a meal, this recipe offers a nutritious and flavorful way to enjoy the wholesome goodness of gigante beans. Pair it with crusty bread or enjoy it on its own for a light and satisfying meal.
