Mediterranean Cheesy White Beans & Leek Bowl
Silky sautéed leeks folded into creamy white beans, gently simmered and finished with melted cheese, olive oil, and herbs.
It tastes indulgent but fits beautifully into a Mediterranean, diet-conscious lifestyle.
⏱ Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: ~30 minutes
🥘 Ingredients
2 cups cooked cannellini or butter beans (or 1½ cans, rinsed)
2 medium leeks, thinly sliced and well washed
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup vegetable broth (or water)
½ tsp dried thyme or oregano
¼ tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
Cheesy Finish
½ cup shredded mozzarella or mild provolone
¼ cup grated Parmesan
Optional: feta for topping
Garnish
Fresh parsley or chives
Lemon zest
🧑🍳 Instructions
1. Cook leeks
Heat olive oil in a wide pan over medium-low heat.
Add leeks with a pinch of salt.
Cook 8–10 minutes, stirring often, until soft and silky (not browned).
2. Add aromatics
Stir in garlic and thyme; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add beans
Add beans and vegetable broth.
Simmer 5–7 minutes, lightly mashing some beans for creaminess.
4. Make it cheesy
Reduce heat to low.
Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
5. Serve
Spoon into bowls.
Finish with herbs, lemon zest, and a drizzle of olive oil.
🌿 Healthy Tips & Variations
Use part-skim mozzarella to lower fat
Add spinach or kale for extra greens
Serve over farro, toast, or polenta
Top with a fried or poached egg for protein boost.
🧮 Nutritional Information
Calories: ~420
Protein: 20 g
Carbs: 34 g
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 8 g
Sodium: ~420 mg