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+ servings
White Bean and Pesto Bake

Hearty White Bean and Pesto Bake for Cozy Weeknight Dinners

This White Bean and Pesto Bake is a quick and healthy vegetarian dish that combines creamy cannellini beans with vibrant pesto and cherry tomatoes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 2 cups Vegetable Broth Low-sodium or water can be used.
  • 1 cup Long Grain Brown Rice Can be replaced with white rice.
  • 2 cans Cannellini Beans Rinse and drain.
  • 1 cup Pesto Use store-bought or homemade.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes Halved.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs Substitute with regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Can be replaced with nutritional yeast for a vegan option.

Equipment

  • 8x8 baking dish
  • Microwave

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Heat the vegetable broth in the microwave for about 4-5 minutes until boiling.
  3. In an 8x8 baking dish, combine the long grain brown rice, rinsed cannellini beans, pesto, salt, and halved cherry tomatoes. Stir thoroughly.
  4. Pour the hot broth over the rice mixture and stir gently.
  5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 65-75 minutes.
  6. After baking, remove the foil to check for excess liquid and return it to the oven uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes if necessary.
  7. Sprinkle panko bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top and broil until golden brown.
  8. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 15gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Enjoy with a side salad or crusty bread for dipping. Customize with extra veggies like zucchini or spinach.

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