For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use 1 tablespoon of olive oil to sauté the escarole. Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash a portion of the cannellini beans before adding them to the skillet. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a Parmesan cheese rind to the soup while it simmers. Remove the rind before serving. This dish is even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Old World Escarole and Beans
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PREP TIME5 mins
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COOK TIME20 mins
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TOTAL TIME25 mins
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SERVING4 People
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VIEWS120
Transport yourself to a rustic Italian trattoria with this comforting and flavorful escarole and beans dish. A delightful combination of tender escarole, creamy cannellini beans, and savory bacon, simmered in a rich broth and finished with a touch of Parmesan. Perfect for a cozy night in with crusty bread for dipping.
Ingridients
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Nutrition
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Carbohydrate22 g
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Cholesterol14 mg
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Fiber10 g
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Protein10 g
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Saturated Fat3 g
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Sodium927 mg
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Sugar1 g
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Fat11 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepIn a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until crisp, about 7-8 minutes. Turn occasionally to ensure even cooking.
02
StepRemove the bacon from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Reserve the bacon drippings in the skillet. Once cooled, crumble the bacon.
03
StepAdd the olive oil to the skillet with the bacon drippings and heat over medium heat for about 1 minute. Add the coarsely chopped escarole and cook, stirring occasionally, until it wilts down slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
04
StepAdd the pressed garlic to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
05
StepPour in the rinsed and drained cannellini beans and chicken broth. Season with crushed red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
06
StepReduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
07
StepServe hot in bowls, topped with crumbled bacon and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil is also a nice touch.
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Kirstin Wuckert
Apr 29, 2025This recipe is a game-changer! My family loves it.
Cielo Baumbach
Apr 8, 2025I love how simple and flavorful this soup is!
Marcus Batz
Feb 22, 2025I've made this several times now, and it's always a hit. I sometimes add a splash of white wine while cooking the escarole.
Leilani Larkin
Dec 28, 2024I added some diced pancetta and it was incredible!
Bradley Frami
Dec 10, 2024So easy to make, and the flavors are spot on. Thanks for sharing!
Grady Sauer
Nov 25, 2024I didn't have escarole, so I used spinach instead. It was still delicious!
Verona Skiles
Jul 12, 2024This is my go-to recipe for a quick and healthy meal.
Claudie Lockman
Jun 2, 2024The perfect comfort food!