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Garlicky White Beans with Lemon & Crispy Sage

weeknightvegetarianlightitalian-inspired
8 minPrep15 minCook2Serves

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoonolive oil
  • 4 clovesgarlic
  • 8 leavesfresh sage
  • 2 can (15 oz each)white beans (cannellini or great northern)
  • ½ cupvegetable broth
  • 1lemon
  • ·salt
  • ·black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoonred pepper flakes (optional)

Prep

  1. 01

    Mince 4 garlic cloves.

  2. 02

    Zest and juice 1 lemon.

Method

  1. 01

    Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.

  2. 02

    Drain and rinse the white beans, then add them to the pan along with the vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  3. 03

    Zest the lemon directly into the pan, then squeeze in the juice. Stir well and taste; season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

  4. 04

    Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small pan over medium-high heat. Add the sage leaves and cook for 2–3 minutes until crispy and fragrant, then remove to a paper towel.

  5. 05

    Pour the beans into bowls or onto plates, top with crispy sage leaves, and serve warm.

Spice Tips

If you like heat, increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon or add a pinch of cayenne. A small pinch of smoked paprika adds depth without extra spice. Fresh mint or basil can replace the sage for a different herbaceous finish.

This dish is best served right away while the sage is still crisp. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for 2 days and can be gently reheated—store the crispy sage separately and add it just before serving. For a heartier version, serve over toast or with a side salad.

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