Escarole and Beans Recipe recipe photo - Escarole and Beans Recipe by Jan

Escarole and Beans Recipe

Published: August 8, 2025 Prep Time: About 15 minutes Cook Time: About 25 minutes Total Time: About 40 minutes Serves: 6 Difficulty: Easy Category: Side Dish Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

  • 1 large head escarole, washed and chopped
  • 2 cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat
  2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant
  3. Add chopped escarole in batches, stirring until wilted
  4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste
  5. Add drained cannellini beans and broth to the skillet
  6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes until beans are heated through
  7. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving
  10. Serve warm as a side dish or over pasta

Special Notes

This traditional Italian dish is both nutritious and comforting. Escarole has a slightly bitter flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy cannellini beans. The dish can be served as a side or as a main course when served over pasta or with crusty bread. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.