Tomato Herb White Bean Skillet

Name: Tomato Herb White Bean Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Recipes

I absolutely love making this Tomato Herb White Bean Skillet. It's the perfect combination of comfort food and healthy eating that I crave during busy weeknights. The flavorful mix of ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and creamy white beans creates a wonderfully satisfying dish that is so easy to prepare. Within just 30 minutes, I can have a delicious meal on the table. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with crusty bread or serve over rice, making it a go-to favorite in my kitchen.

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-01-15T18:06:37.760Z

The first time I made this skillet dish, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. The combination of fresh tomatoes and herbs brings so much brightness, and the white beans add a hearty touch that makes it a true meal. I love experimenting with different herbs, and my go-to is a mix of basil and oregano for a classic vibe.

One tip I learned along the way is to let the beans cook for a few extra minutes after adding the tomatoes. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, transforming a simple dish into something incredible. It’s definitely a favorite in my household!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh and vibrant flavors that brighten any meal
Nutritious and filling, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner
Very versatile; can be adapted with different herbs or spices

      

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the white beans, which offer a creamy texture and hearty protein. I often use canned varieties for convenience, but if you prefer to use dried beans, soak them overnight and simmer until tender before incorporating them. This step increases cooking time significantly, but it adds a depth of flavor that canned beans can't match.

Cherry tomatoes are not only sweet and juicy but also cook down beautifully, releasing their natural sugars to create a rich sauce. When choosing tomatoes, look for vibrant ones with firm skins. If you can find them, heirloom varieties add an exceptional flavor profile that elevates this skillet meal even further.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Using medium heat is crucial for sautéing your onions and garlic. Cooking them too quickly over high heat can lead to burning, which will impart bitterness to your dish. Instead, keep an eye on them and stir occasionally until they’re translucent and fragrant, which usually takes about 4 minutes for the onions and another 1 minute after adding garlic.

When adding the cherry tomatoes, resist the temptation to stir too vigorously; this can break them apart too soon. Instead, allow them to sit undisturbed until they start to soften, about 5 minutes. This helps retain their shape and provides a more appealing presentation in your final dish.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Tomato Herb White Bean Skillet can serve as a hearty main course or a delightful side. For a more filling meal, serve it over quinoa or rice, and consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra protein boost. Pair it with crusty bread for scooping up the flavorful broth, making each bite a comforting treat.

You can easily adapt this recipe to your tastes by swapping out herbs or beans. If you love spicy food, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the onions, or mix in a handful of spinach for a nutritional boost. For a creamy touch, stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese right before serving.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make the Tomato Herb White Bean Skillet.

Ingredients

2 cans (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

With these ingredients prepared, you're all set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to bring your Tomato Herb White Bean Skillet to life.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Herbs

Add the halved cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, and dried basil to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.

Stir in the Beans

Gently fold the white beans into the tomato mixture. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and transfer to serving bowls. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your hearty skillet dish!

Now you can enjoy this delicious and hearty skillet dish!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables or using different types of beans. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference for a personalized touch.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This skillet dish is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if it looks too thick.

If you want to freeze this meal, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before rewarming on the stove, adding a bit of liquid as necessary to restore its original texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your skillet seems too dry during cooking, it’s perfectly acceptable to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to keep things moist. This ensures all the ingredients meld beautifully and prevents anything from burning. Additionally, if your tomatoes aren’t releasing enough liquid, try lightly crushing them with the back of a spoon, encouraging them to break down quicker.

In case you find the dish lacking in flavor, revisit the seasoning! A generous pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper can significantly enhance the overall taste. Sometimes a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can brighten up the flavors even more, cutting through the richness of the beans and oils.

Ingredient Substitutions

Should you find yourself without white beans, chickpeas make a fantastic substitute, providing similar texture and a slightly nuttier flavor. You can also try other beans like cannellini or navy beans depending on what you have on hand. This versatility makes the recipe adaptable to your pantry.

For a gluten-free version, simply ensure that any added bread or accompaniments are gluten-free. Additionally, if fresh basil isn’t available, consider using dried basil or another herb such as thyme to maintain the herby flavor, though fresh herbs will always elevate the taste of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but make sure to soak and cook the dried beans beforehand according to package instructions.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the Tomato Herb White Bean Skillet?

Absolutely! You can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, over rice, or even tossed with pasta for a heartier meal.