Cheesy Leeks and Beans with Herby Cannellini Recipe

If you are searching for a comforting, flavorful dish that truly warms the soul while celebrating vibrant, fresh ingredients, you have to try this Cheesy Leeks and Beans with Herby Cannellini Recipe. It’s a delightful winter warmer that combines tender, buttery leeks with creamy cannellini beans, all enveloped in a luxurious cheesy sauce brightened by fresh herbs and a touch of lemon zest. The contrast of textures and the blend of sharp cheddar and nutty vegetarian pecorino make every bite irresistible, perfect for cozy nights when you want something nourishing yet special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that each play an integral role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the delicate sweetness of leeks to the savory depth of white wine and herbs, each element shines and comes together beautifully.

• 1 tin drained cannellini beans: Creamy and mild beans that form the hearty base of this dish.
• 1 leek: Adds a subtle oniony sweetness and soft texture when cooked down.
• 2 cloves garlic: Infuses the dish with warmth and a gentle pungency.
• 1 sprig rosemary: Provides earthy, pine-like notes for aromatic depth.
• 1 sprig thyme: Offers a fresh, slightly minty herbal accent.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overwhelming them.
• 1 tsp pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Brings richness and helps soften the leeks beautifully.
• ⅛ cup white wine: Lifts the savory ingredients with acidity and delicate fruitiness.
• ¾ cup veggie stock: Keeps the dish moist and adds a savory base note.
• 30g cheddar cheese: Sharp and creamy, it melts into the beans and leek mixture perfectly.
• 15g vegetarian pecorino: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that brightens the whole dish.
• 0.5 lemon, juice and zest: Brings zesty freshness to cut through the creaminess.
• Handful parsley, finely chopped: Provides a fresh, herbaceous finishing touch.

How to Make Cheesy Leeks and Beans with Herby Cannellini Recipe

Step 1: Gently Sauté the Leeks and Aromatics

Start by melting the butter over low heat in a saucepan. Add the finely sliced leeks, thinly sliced garlic, sprigs of thyme, and chopped rosemary. Cooking this mixture slowly for 8 to 10 minutes will release the natural sweetness of the leeks while infusing the butter with those fragrant herbs. This slow softening is the heart of the dish, creating a luscious base that’s irresistibly aromatic and tender.

Step 2: Add Wine and Let It Reduce

Next, pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a couple of minutes. This step is essential because the wine adds bright acidity and helps to highlight the freshness of the herbs and the gentle sweetness of the leeks. The reduction intensifies these flavors and forms a subtle, elegant sauce.

Step 3: Combine Beans, Stock, and Cheese

Now, tip in the drained cannellini beans along with the vegetable stock. Season with salt and pepper to taste and sprinkle in the cheddar cheese. Stir everything well and let it cook for another 8 to 10 minutes. During this time, the cheese melts slowly creating a creamy, slightly gooey texture that brings all the elements together in a harmonious blend.

Step 4: Finish with Pecorino, Lemon, and Parsley

Once the mixture has thickened and the beans are nicely heated through, grate over the vegetarian pecorino cheese, add more seasoning if needed, and stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest. The pecorino adds a nutty saltiness that complements the cheddar, while the lemon cuts through the richness and brightens the dish. At the end, scatter the finely chopped parsley over the top for a pop of green freshness.

How to Serve Cheesy Leeks and Beans with Herby Cannellini Recipe

Garnishes

For garnishing, a handful of freshly chopped parsley adds brightness and color. You can also sprinkle a bit more pecorino over each serving to enhance the salty, cheesy notes. A grating of lemon zest right before serving enlivens the dish and adds a lovely aromatic finish that makes every forkful feel special.

Side Dishes

This hearty, cheesy leek and bean dish pairs wonderfully with simple crusty bread to soak up all the luscious juices. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside roasted root vegetables or a fresh green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

You can elevate the presentation by serving the beans in shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant green parsley and scattered cheese on top. If you want a bit of extra texture, add toasted walnuts or pine nuts for crunch. For a complete meal, serve the Cheesy Leeks and Beans with Herby Cannellini Recipe over creamy polenta or alongside warm, buttered new potatoes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this dish keep very well in the fridge for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and moisture. The beans will continue to soak up the cheese and herb juices, making for an even tastier lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze the cheesy leek and bean mixture if needed. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to one month. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of vegetable stock or water if the dish seems too thick. The cheesy sauce will loosen up beautifully, and the fresh flavors will be just as inviting the second time around.

FAQs

Can I use another type of bean instead of cannellini?

Absolutely! While cannellini beans provide a creamy texture and mild flavor, you can swap in butter beans or great northern beans without losing that comforting feel. Just make sure to drain and rinse the beans before use.

What can I substitute for vegetarian pecorino?

If you don’t have vegetarian pecorino, you can try a hard, aged vegetarian-friendly cheese with a similarly salty and nutty profile, such as Grana Padano or a firm aged cheddar. These will maintain that great finishing flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

This particular version contains butter and cheese, so it’s not vegan. However, you can easily veganize it by using vegan butter and plant-based cheese alternatives that melt well, like cashew-based cheeses.

Can I prepare this recipe without wine?

Yes, you can skip the white wine if you prefer. Simply use a little extra vegetable stock and a splash of lemon juice to brighten the dish. The wine adds depth, but you will still get a rich, herby flavor from the herbs and cheese.

How long does it take to cook the dish?

The dish comes together quickly in about 25 minutes total, with 5 minutes prep and 20 minutes cooking. It’s perfect for when you want something satisfying but not time-consuming.

Final Thoughts

Give this Cheesy Leeks and Beans with Herby Cannellini Recipe a whirl next time you need a comforting, no-fuss meal that feels as special as it tastes. It’s a cozy crowd-pleaser that celebrates simple ingredients in the most delicious way. Once you taste how the creamy cheese and fragrant herbs meld with tender leeks and beans, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen too.

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