Description
A comforting and wholesome White Bean and Pesto Bake with Brown Rice combining tender white beans, fragrant basil pesto, and nutty brown rice, baked to golden perfection with an optional cheesy topping. This nutritious dish is easy to prepare, packed with fiber and protein, and perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding family and friends.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup dry brown rice (or 2 ½ cups cooked brown rice)
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed (or 1 ½ cups cooked white beans)
- ½ cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or vegan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the brown rice according to package instructions until tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Drain any excess water and set the rice aside to cool slightly.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped garlic and onion, cooking until fragrant and translucent.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, white beans, pesto sauce, sautéed garlic and onions, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Gently fold everything together.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly spread the ingredients and top with shredded mozzarella or cheese, if using.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are slightly crisp. Let the dish cool briefly before serving.
Notes
- This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
- The bake can be made vegan by omitting cheese or using vegan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 10 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: White Bean Pesto Bake, Brown Rice, Vegetarian, Comfort Food