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Gigante Beans – Whole Living Eat Well

Gigante Beans – Whole Living Eat Well
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

Gigante Beans

Course: Sides, MainCuisine: Mediterranean
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

1

hour 
Calories

320

kcal

Ingredients

  • 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.