Braised White Beans and Leafy Greens
This quick microwave-braised white beans and leafy greens recipe is the ultimate easy and satisfying meal. Combining tender canned white beans with fresh greens like kale, spinach, or escarole, it’s a flavorful, nutritious dish ready in minutes. Made in an Anyday dish, it’s ideal for cooking, serving, and storing—perfect for busy weeknights or any time of year.
All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work— and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.
What You’ll Need
What You’ll Need
The Small Dish
This dish’s superpower is evenly heating leftovers and cooking small portions.
The Anyhand Mitts
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped white onion
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 cup (45g) Swiss chard, escarole, or kale, stems removed
- ½ cup (95g) canned cannellini beans, drained
- ½ cup (120ml) chicken or vegetable stock
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
Preparation
- Place oil, onion, garlic powder, and chili flakes in an Anyday dish and stir to combine. Cover with lid (knob lifted).
- Cook in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until the onion has slightly softened.
- Stir in the Swiss chard, beans, stock, salt, and pepper and stir to combine.
- Continue cooking in the microwave for 4 minutes, or until the greens are tender.
- Add the parmesan cheese and stir until fully incorporated.
Serving suggestions & tips
- Garlic oil drizzle: Drizzle warm garlic oil over the beans for an extra boost of flavor and aroma. Check out our recipes for quick garlic confit for a delicious homemade garlic oil.
- Egg and toast: Top the beans with a poached egg and serve over toast for a satisfying, hearty meal.
- Savory bacon: Toss in crumbled crispy bacon or pancetta for a delicious smoky twist
- Sautéed mushrooms: Fold in cooked mushrooms for an earthy, meaty addition that enhances the dish's richness.
Recipe notes
- This recipe tastes if possible better when reheated. Make up to 3 days ahead and enjoy it in your meal prep lunches or as quick meals at home.
- Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.
All You Need to Know About Making Braised White Beans and Leafy Greens
What are braised white beans with leafy greens?
Braised white beans with leafy greens is a simple, nutritious dish featuring tender white beans and a mix of hearty greens like kale, Swiss chard, or escarole. This recipe combines savory flavors with a hint of spice, perfect for a quick lunch or side dish.
Can I make braised white beans with leafy greens in the microwave?
Absolutely! Using an Anyday dish, you can quickly make braised white beans with leafy greens in the microwave—about three times faster than making this recipe on the stovetop. This method minimizes cooking time and keeps your kitchen mess-free while delivering rich, delicious flavors. Discover more leafy green recipes by exploring our collection here!
How long can I store braised white beans with leafy greens in the fridge?
This recipe can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days using an Anyday dish. Allow the dish to cool, cover it with the Anyday lid, and refrigerate until you’re ready to enjoy. The silicone-sealed lid helps keep the dish fresh and flavorful.
What’s the best way to reheat braised white beans with leafy greens?
The best way to reheat this recipe is in the microwave using an Anyday dish. Microwave on high for 1-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?
Certainly! While this recipe calls for canned cannellini beans, feel free to substitute with other white beans like Great Northern or navy beans. Just make sure the beans are drained and rinsed before adding them to the dish for the best texture and flavor. Discover more bean recipes by exploring our collection here!
Can I make braised white beans with leafy greens vegan?
Yes, making this dish vegan is easy! Simply use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock and omit the parmesan cheese. You can also replace the parmesan with nutritional yeast, or any plant-based alternative for a dairy-free option.
