Why Make This Recipe
Gigantes with tomatoes and greens is a delightful dish that brings together hearty beans, fresh greens, and a rich tomato sauce. This recipe is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. It is a wonderful option for vegetarians and anyone looking for a filling, healthy meal. It’s also a great dish for sharing with family and friends!
How to Make Gigantes with Tomatoes and Greens
Ingredients:
- 500g/1lb 2oz dried gigantes beans or butter beans, soaked overnight
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- 6 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tbsp tomato purée
- 1 x 400g tin chopped tomatoes
- 1 tsp salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 350g/12oz chard or spinach, washed
- Small handful fresh parsley, chopped
- Small handful fresh mint, chopped
Directions:
- Drain the soaked beans and cover them with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cook for 1½ to 2 hours until the beans are tender.
- In a pan, gently soften the chopped onion and garlic in 2 tablespoons of olive oil for about 5 minutes.
- Add the sweet paprika, tomato purée, chopped tomatoes, 100ml/3½fl oz of water, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer for 30 minutes.
- Stir in the washed chard or spinach and remove the pan from heat.
- Preheat your oven to 160°C/140°C Fan/Gas 3.
- Once the beans are cooked, drain them and mix them with the tomato and chard sauce. Add 2 more tablespoons of olive oil and the chopped parsley and mint.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole pan. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and bake in the oven for 35–40 minutes or until the beans are tender and the sauce is thickened and bubbling.
- Serve hot, warm, or at room temperature.
How to Serve Gigantes with Tomatoes and Greens
Gigantes can be served as a main dish or a hearty side. It pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or a simple salad. The dish can be enjoyed hot, warm, or even at room temperature, making it quite versatile for any meal or gathering.
How to Store Gigantes with Tomatoes and Greens
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dish for longer storage. Just make sure to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven.
Tips to Make Gigantes with Tomatoes and Greens
- Soak the beans overnight for a better texture and shorter cooking time.
- You can add more spices or herbs if you want to customize the flavors to your taste.
- If using fresh spinach, add it at the very end of cooking to keep its vibrant color and nutrients.
Variation
For a different twist, you can add feta cheese on top before serving or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for extra heat. You could also substitute the chard with kale or other leafy greens based on your preference.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned beans. Just drain and rinse them, then skip the initial cooking step. Mix them directly with the tomato sauce and bake for a shorter time.
2. Is this dish vegan?
Yes, Gigantes with tomatoes and greens is entirely plant-based and suitable for vegans.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.
