Hearty Vegetable and Bean Sauté

This delightful vegetable and bean sauté offers a vibrant and hearty meal that will satisfy both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Combining carrots, zucchini, beans, and onions with a blend of red pesto and tomato sauce, this dish is rich in flavor and nutrients. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a delicious, plant-based meal that's quick to prepare. The creamy texture of the zucchini and the earthy taste of the beans complement the sweetness of the carrots beautifully. With a hint of pesto adding depth, this sauté is both comforting and refreshing. It's an excellent choice any time of the year, whether you're hosting a dinner or just preparing a family meal. This dish can be a standalone main or paired with rice or crusty bread. It showcases simple ingredients in an elegant yet uncomplicated way. Enjoy the warm, inviting flavors of this sauté today!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

3 large carrots
2 small zucchinis
1 can of canned beans
1 onion (use two if they are small)
3 teaspoons of red pesto
2-3 teaspoons of ketchup or sweet tomato sauce

Additional Ingredients

Salt, to taste
Oil, for cooking
Water, as needed

Preparation Time

Total time: Approximately 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Begin by peeling the carrots and slicing them into thin rounds. Heat a pan over low heat and add a small amount of oil.
Add the carrot slices to the pan, cover with a lid, and allow them to cook slowly, stirring occasionally.
After about 10 minutes, when the carrots start to soften, finely chop the onion and add it to the pan. Stir everything, cover again, and let it sauté on low heat.
After 5 minutes, cut the zucchinis into small pieces and add them to the pan. Stir well and continue cooking.
Once the zucchinis are soft, add the drained canned beans and a splash of water to the mixture. Stir everything together.
Incorporate the red pesto and ketchup or tomato sauce, then season with a pinch of salt.
Combine all the ingredients thoroughly and let the sauté continue over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Keep cooking until the zucchinis, onions, and carrots meld into a soft, stew-like consistency.
If the mixture becomes too dry, you can add a little more water to maintain moisture.
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning and pesto level according to your preference.
Once done, serve hot and enjoy as it is or alongside a portion of rice.

Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice.
If you're out of red pesto, substitute with green pesto or a bit of basil paste.
Feel free to experiment with different types of beans, such as kidney or black beans.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Protein: 5g
Fats: 9g
Carbohydrates: 37g

Variations

For a spicier version, add chili flakes or fresh chopped chili.
Include bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
For a creamier texture, stir in some coconut milk or cream at the end of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of steamed rice or quinoa.
Pair with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness.

Best Places

Brasserie Les Faux Bourgeois - A popular eatery offering a delightful twist on classic comfort foods. Location: 663 E 15th Ave, Vancouver, Canada.
Wild Ginger - Renowned for its fusion dishes with bold flavors. Location: 1401 3rd Ave, Seattle, USA.
The Modern - Offers an inspiring menu in a sophisticated setting. Location: 9 W 53rd St, New York, USA.
The Greenhouse - Known for its farm-to-table approach and innovative dishes. Location: 27 St Stephen's Green, Dublin, Ireland.
Dishoom - A Bombay-themed cafe with a vibrant atmosphere. Location: 22 King's End, London, England.
The Gourmet Yard - Offers a variety of healthy and vegan options. Location: 59 Courtenay Place, Wellington, New Zealand.
Babel - Fuses Mediterranean and Moroccan flavors in a chic setting. Location: Kálvin tér 8, Budapest, Hungary.
Broadsheet Kitchen - Features rotating menus from resident chefs. Location: 166 Gertrude St, Fitzroy, Australia.
The Ledbury - Offers an exceptional dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Location: 127 Ledbury Rd, London, England.
The Clove Club - Known for its innovative approach to classic British cuisine. Location: Shoreditch Town Hall, London, England.