Tomato Herb White Bean Skillet

Name: Tomato Herb White Bean Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can diced tomatoes); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Recipes

I absolutely love making this Tomato Herb White Bean Skillet when I need a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of juicy tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and creamy white beans creates a dish that is both comforting and nutritious. I often whip this up for dinner after a long day, and it's not only delicious but also easy to customize with whatever ingredients I have on hand. Whether served alone or alongside some crusty bread, this dish never fails to please.

Created by

Rosalyn Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:46:35.731Z

When I first decided to make this dish, I was searching for something vibrant and hearty. I tried using fresh herbs straight from my garden, and the result was an explosion of flavor that amazed me. Not only does it taste great, but the variety of ingredients provides a beautiful pop of color that's just as appetizing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

One of my favorite aspects of this skillet recipe is how versatile it is. I learned that by adding a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end, you can elevate the entire dish to new heights, bringing that perfect balance of acidity to complement the creaminess of the beans. I encourage you to experiment with different herbs and spices to make the recipe your own!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, aromatic flavors that bring comfort to any meal
Quick and easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights
Nutritious ingredients that make you feel good inside

Perfecting the Sauté

Sautéing the onions until they are translucent is crucial for building flavor in this dish. Aim for a gentle heat so the onions soften without browning, which would alter the intended sweetness of the base. You can expect this to take about 5 minutes. Stir them occasionally for even cooking, and watch for them to become glossy and tender before adding the garlic.

Garlic is a powerful aromatic in this skillet, but be careful not to let it burn. Cooking it for about a minute, until fragrant, allows its oils to release without turning bitter. If you're a fan of garlic, feel free to increase the amount, but remember to keep an eye on it to maintain the balance of flavors.

Customizing Your Beans and Tomatoes

The versatility of this dish is one of its best features. While the recipe calls for white beans, other varieties like cannellini or navy beans can work just as well. If you're using dried beans, ensure they are properly cooked before adding them to the skillet. This can save you time if made ahead of time or if you use canned beans, which only need a brief heating to blend the flavors.

When choosing tomatoes, fresh are always ideal for their burst of flavor and texture. However, if fresh tomatoes are out of season or unavailable, canned diced tomatoes are a great substitute. Just remember to drain excess juice for a thicker consistency. When adding tomatoes, allow the dish to simmer, letting the ingredients meld together for about 10 minutes – this step is what transforms your dish into a comforting meal.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful and hearty meal.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go for the best cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful and satisfying skillet meal.

Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the Beans and Tomatoes

Add the white beans and chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes.

Finish and Serve

Once heated through, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy immediately!

Your skillet should be bursting with flavor and ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the white beans with chickpeas or any other variety you like for a different twist. Also, adding a few greens like spinach or kale can enhance the nutritional profile of the dish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you wish to make this dish ahead of time, it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To store, simply place the cooled skillet mixture in an airtight container. Before reheating, you may want to sprinkle a little extra salt or drizzle with olive oil to freshen up the flavors. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through—this should take about 5-7 minutes.

For those interested in freezing leftovers, this skillet can be frozen for up to a month. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat as described above. Remember to adjust seasoning as freezing can mellow the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This Tomato Herb White Bean Skillet is perfect as a stand-alone meal, but it can be elevated by pairing it with various sides. For a hearty dish, serve it alongside crusty bread, allowing you to soak up the delicious juices. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast and enhance the overall experience.

For those who enjoy a bit of extra protein, consider topping the skillet with crumbled feta cheese or a poached egg before serving. Both add rich flavor and creaminess that balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Alternatively, you can also serve it over a bed of quinoa or rice for a more substantial meal that’s still packed with nutrients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Canned tomatoes are a great substitute and save time. Just choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Yes, this Tomato Herb White Bean Skillet is completely vegan based on the ingredients listed!

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's even tastier the next day!

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, over rice, or with a simple green salad on the side.