As the weather cools down, our thoughts turn to warm, comforting meals that can be savored on a chilly evening. One ingredient that’s perfect for this type of cooking is Borlotti beans – also known as cranberry beans or romano beans. These Italian-style beans have a creamy texture and nutty flavor that pairs well with a variety of ingredients. From hearty stews to flavorful dips, we’ve gathered 18 delicious Borlotti bean recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
In the following pages, you’ll find inspiration for cozy nights in with friends or family, as well as ideas for using up leftovers or making big batches for meal prep. Whether you’re a vegetarian, meat-lover, or something in between, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab a blanket, gather around the table, and get ready to indulge in some seriously satisfying Borlotti bean goodness.
Creamy Borlotti Bean Soup with Rosemary
Creamy Borlotti Bean Soup with Rosemary Recipe
Savor the warm, comforting flavors of this Italian-inspired soup, featuring creamy borlotti beans and fragrant rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried borlotti beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and rosemary; cook for an additional minute.
3. Add soaked borlotti beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until beans are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender in batches) to puree soup until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Tuscan-Style Borlotti Bean Stew
A hearty and comforting Italian-inspired stew that combines the rich flavors of borlotti beans, tomatoes, and aromatics. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried borlotti beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the borlotti beans, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Borlotti Bean and Chorizo Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavors of chorizo sausage with creamy borlotti beans, all wrapped up in a crispy, golden-brown crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 can borlotti beans (drained and rinsed)
– 1 chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chorizo sausage over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in borlotti beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with grated cheddar cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlicky Borlotti Bean Dip
This creamy dip is a flavorful twist on traditional hummus, featuring the rich taste of borlotti beans and a punch of garlic. Perfect for snacking or as a complement to your favorite crackers or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked borlotti beans
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: paprika, chili flakes, or other herbs for added depth
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine borlotti beans, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped parsley or paprika, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep) + blending time
Servings: 8-10
Borlotti Bean and Kale Minestrone
This hearty Italian-inspired soup is a perfect blend of creamy beans, earthy kale, and savory vegetables. A simple yet satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried Borlotti beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bunch kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add soaked Borlotti beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until beans are tender.
3. Stir in chopped kale and cook until wilted.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spicy Borlotti Bean Tacos
Spicy Borlotti Bean Tacos Recipe
This recipe combines the creamy texture of borlotti beans with a spicy kick and crunchy taco shells, perfect for a flavorful meal or snack. Try it out and enjoy the harmony of flavors!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked borlotti beans
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked borlotti beans, red onion, jalapeño pepper, garlic, olive oil, and ground cumin. Mix well.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the bean mixture into each shell.
5. Add desired toppings and serve.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Borlotti Bean and Pancetta Risotto
This creamy risotto combines the nutty flavor of borlotti beans with the savory goodness of pancetta, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 oz pancetta, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup borlotti beans, cooked and drained
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add pancetta and cook until crispy, then remove from pan.
3. Reduce heat to medium, add onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add wine (if using), broth, and borlotti beans. Stir and bring to a simmer.
6. Cook, stirring frequently, until rice is tender and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
7. Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan cheese, pancetta, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Borlotti Beans with Herbs
Roasted Borlotti Beans with Herbs Recipe
Summary:
This recipe highlights the simplicity of roasting borlotti beans with aromatic herbs, resulting in a flavorful and nutritious side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried borlotti beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the soaked and drained borlotti beans, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the bean mixture onto a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender and lightly caramelized.
Cooking Time:
Approximately 30-40 minutes
Note: For added flavor, you can also add a splash of lemon juice and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy!
Borlotti Bean and Sausage Cassoulet
This hearty cassoulet recipe combines the flavors of Italy and France, featuring borlotti beans, sweet Italian sausage, and crispy breadcrumbs. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried borlotti beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 Italian sausages, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, combine soaked borlotti beans, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until beans are tender.
4. Cook sausages in boiling water for 5-7 minutes or until browned, then slice into thick rounds.
5. Combine cooked beans, sausage slices, and breadcrumbs in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mediterranean Borlotti Bean Salad
This hearty salad combines the creamy flavor of borlotti beans with the bright, zesty taste of Mediterranean ingredients, perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried borlotti beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Cook the borlotti beans according to package instructions until tender.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano.
3. Add the cooked borlotti beans, red onion, parsley, and feta cheese (if using) to the bowl.
4. Toss to combine, ensuring the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
5. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Borlotti Bean and Pumpkin Curry
This hearty, warming curry combines the nutty flavor of borlotti beans with the sweetness of roasted pumpkin, all wrapped up in a fragrant blend of Indian spices. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried borlotti beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 medium pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pan, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add borlotti beans, roasted pumpkin, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Slow-Cooked Borlotti Beans with Bacon
A hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal. This recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort, as it simmers away in the slow cooker all day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried borlotti beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine borlotti beans, bacon, onion, garlic, carrot, and celery.
2. Add the diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours (depending on slow cooker setting)
Borlotti Bean and Mushroom Ragout
This hearty, comforting ragout combines the creamy texture of borlotti beans with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried borlotti beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the mushrooms and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the borlotti beans, vegetable broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 45-50 minutes or until the beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Borlotti Bean Hummus with Lemon
A refreshing twist on traditional hummus, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of borlotti beans with a squeeze of bright lemon juice. Perfect as a dip for vegetables or pita bread, or as a spread for crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked borlotti beans
– 1/4 cup chickpeas
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the borlotti beans.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the borlotti beans, chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil.
5. Continue blending until the hummus reaches your desired consistency.
6. Serve at room temperature, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika or a lemon slice if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Borlotti Bean and Tomato Bruschetta
Capture the essence of a warm Italian summer with this vibrant bruschetta, featuring creamy borlotti beans, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked borlotti beans
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 slices of baguette (preferably day-old)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cooked borlotti beans, diced tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and parsley.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
5. Spoon the bean-tomato mixture over toasted bread, followed by a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Borlotti Bean and Spinach Pasta
This comforting pasta dish combines the creamy texture of borlotti beans with the nutritional benefits of spinach, all wrapped up in a flavorful tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cooked borlotti beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add borlotti beans and cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves to the sauce and cook until wilted.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the bean and spinach mixture. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Borlotti Bean and Smoked Paprika Stew
This rustic Italian-inspired stew is a perfect comfort food for a chilly evening, packed with tender borlotti beans, smoky paprika flavor, and aromatic vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried borlotti beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
2. Add borlotti beans, smoked paprika, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Borlotti Bean and Feta Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of roasted peppers with creamy borlotti beans, tangy feta cheese, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color)
– 1 can borlotti beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together borlotti beans, feta cheese, olive oil, garlic, and parsley.
4. Stuff each pepper with the bean mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these 18 delicious borlotti bean recipes! From creamy soups to hearty stews, and from casseroles to salads, there’s something for everyone. Try Creamy Borlotti Bean Soup with Rosemary or Tuscan-Style Borlotti Bean Stew for a warm and comforting meal. Or, spice things up with Spicy Borlotti Bean Tacos or Borlotti Bean and Pancetta Risotto. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, opt for Roasted Borlotti Beans with Herbs or Mediterranean Borlotti Bean Salad. Whatever your taste, these recipes are sure to satisfy!
