Roasted Broccoli and White Beans offers a comforting, plant-based option that is both nutritious and satisfying. With its crisped edges and warm flavors, this dish brings together the hearty texture of white beans with the caramelized crunch of roasted broccoli. It’s an ideal choice when you want a simple meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste or quality.
Whether you’re planning a wholesome dinner, looking for a healthy meal prep option, or need a dependable side dish, this recipe is a versatile favorite. It’s made with pantry staples, takes under an hour to prepare, and pairs beautifully with grains, pasta, or even a fresh salad.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Broccoli and White Beans Recipe
You’re getting plenty of nourishment in each serving. Broccoli brings fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while white beans offer protein, iron, and complex carbs that help keep you full and energized.
The process is incredibly straightforward. You don’t need a long list of ingredients or advanced cooking skills to get great results.
This dish is adaptable. It works well as a standalone plant-based meal, an addition to pasta, or a side that complements proteins and grains.
The combination of roasted flavor and creamy texture is a winner. Crisp broccoli and tender beans create a contrast that’s both hearty and comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each element in this recipe adds something valuable in both taste and texture. Here’s a closer look at the ingredients and their purpose.
Broccoli
You’ll need one large broccoli crown, chopped into uniform florets. Roasting enhances its flavor, giving it a slightly sweet and nutty taste along with a crispy texture on the outside.
White Beans
A single 15-ounce can of white beans, such as cannellini or great northern, provides a smooth and creamy contrast to the roasted vegetables. Rinse and drain them well before using.
Olive Oil
Use three tablespoons total—two for tossing the broccoli and one for gently sautéing the beans. A quality olive oil will help with browning and add richness.
Garlic
Two cloves of minced garlic bring a strong aromatic base. It’s a must-have for elevating the flavor of both the broccoli and beans.
Dried Oregano
This common herb adds a subtle earthiness that blends well with the savory components of the dish.
Smoked Paprika
Used to bring warmth and a hint of smokiness, this spice adds complexity without overwhelming the other flavors.
Salt and Pepper
A starting point of ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper enhances the natural flavors. You can always adjust after tasting.
Fresh Lemon Juice
A tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice brings brightness and helps cut through the richness of the olive oil and beans.
Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)
Add a small pinch for a subtle heat. It’s completely optional based on your spice preference.
Fresh Parsley
Finishing the dish with fresh parsley introduces a vibrant freshness and appealing color.
Lemon Wedges
Optional at serving time, but they allow your guests to add more citrus as they like.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven
Begin by setting your oven to 425°F. This ensures the broccoli roasts properly and develops those golden, crispy edges. - Chop and Dry the Broccoli
Rinse the broccoli and cut it into bite-sized florets. If you’re including the stems, peel and slice them thin so they cook evenly. - Season the Broccoli
Toss the florets in a mixing bowl with two tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat all sides. - Roast the Broccoli
Spread the broccoli out on a baking sheet in one layer. Roast for about 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure it cooks evenly. The edges should brown nicely without burning. - Prep the White Beans
While the broccoli is in the oven, rinse and drain your canned white beans and set them aside. - Warm the Beans
Add the final tablespoon of olive oil to a skillet over medium heat. Add the beans and stir occasionally for two to three minutes until they are warmed through. Season with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper. - Combine the Ingredients
When the broccoli is finished roasting, add it to the skillet with the beans. Stir gently so the beans don’t break apart. - Add Lemon and Spice
Squeeze in the lemon juice and, if desired, sprinkle the red pepper flakes. Let everything simmer together briefly so the flavors meld. - Garnish and Serve
Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and top with chopped parsley. Serve hot, and offer lemon wedges for a fresh finishing touch.
Helpful Tips
Be sure not to crowd the broccoli on the baking tray. Roasting works best when the vegetables have enough space to brown instead of steam.
Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to dry the broccoli after rinsing. Removing excess moisture helps them crisp up in the oven.
Go easy on the lemon juice if your beans are already salted or brined. Taste before adjusting seasoning.
For even more flavor, you can roast garlic cloves along with the broccoli and mash them into the beans at the end.
Keep the beans warm but don’t overcook them. This helps maintain their shape and creamy texture.
Details
Flavor: Bright, savory, with smoky undertones
Texture: Crisp broccoli, soft and creamy beans
Ideal For: Simple dinners, light lunches, vegetarian mains
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Recipe Variations
Lemon-Garlic Twist
Add a bit more lemon juice and garlic for a zesty version with bold flavor.
Mediterranean Touch
Stir in sliced olives or a spoonful of sun-dried tomatoes right before serving.
Add More Vegetables
Bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes can be roasted alongside the broccoli for extra color and flavor.
Pasta Bowl
Combine the roasted mixture with your favorite pasta for a filling dinner.
Grain Bowl
Serve over quinoa or farro and top with tahini sauce or hummus for a hearty lunch.
Spicy Kick
Increase the red pepper flakes or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to turn up the heat.
Fresh Herb Finish
Swap parsley with chopped basil or dill for a seasonal change.
Nutty Option
Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for crunch and richness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
Note: These values are approximate and can vary slightly depending on the brand of ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can broccoli and white beans be roasted together without drying out?
Roasting both together might dry out the beans. It’s best to roast the broccoli alone and then gently heat the beans separately before combining.
What’s the best type of white beans to use?
Cannellini and great northern beans are ideal. They hold their shape and offer a smooth, creamy consistency.
How do you keep broccoli crispy in the oven?
Make sure it’s thoroughly dried after washing, spread it out in a single layer on the baking tray, and use a hot oven around 425°F.
Is this recipe better as a side dish or a main course?
It works well for either. Serve it on its own for a lighter meal or pair it with grains, pasta, or protein for a full dinner.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven to preserve texture. If freezing, allow the mixture to cool completely and place in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to two months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and warm through before serving.
Print
Roasted Broccoli and White Beans | Simple Weeknight Wonder
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Roasted Broccoli and White Beans recipe is a simple, plant-based dish full of flavor and texture. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or a hearty side, it’s crisp, creamy, lemony, and ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Cut broccoli into small florets. Peel and slice stems if using.
3. In a large bowl, toss broccoli with 2 tablespoons olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread broccoli on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. While roasting, drain and rinse the white beans.
6. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet. Add beans and sauté 2–3 minutes. Season lightly.
7. Add roasted broccoli to skillet with beans. Stir gently to combine.
8. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle red pepper flakes if using. Stir and heat through.
9. Garnish with parsley. Serve warm with lemon wedges.
Notes
Use cannellini or great northern beans for the best texture.
Add cherry tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
Toss with pasta or quinoa for a full meal.
For a spicier version, increase red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Plant-Based
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Conclusion
Roasted Broccoli and White Beans is a go-to recipe for anyone looking to enjoy more plant-forward meals without sacrificing comfort or flavor. It’s easy to customize, quick to prepare, and delivers on taste every single time. Whether served on its own or as part of a larger spread, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it once and you’ll find yourself making it again and again.