Copycat Zoe’s Braised White Beans with Rosemary

My Copycat Zoe’s Braised White Beans with Rosemary are going to become a new favorite side. This healthier version of this flavorful restaurant side is something I fell in love with and keep on the menu regularly. White beans are inexpensive, high in fiber, and high in protein. They are an excellent choice for a side or even a whole meal!

Copycat Zoe’s Braised White Beans with Rosemary

I was talking to a friend about how disappointed I was in the nutritional facts and ingredients in the white beans at a local restaurant. She sent me her recipe for a “cleaned up version”. They are DELICIOUS! Not only do they taste as good, if not better, than the restaurant I have zero guilt eating these.

I was shocked that this recipe only needed 6 ingredients. I was just sure it would be a long list to create this flavor. When I started cooking it the first time, I was ready for disappointment. Boy was I shocked when I sat down and found these even better than I could have dreamed.

Can I Use Dried Rosemary in these Braised White Beans? 

You can use an equivalent amount of dried rosemary in these beans, but the flavor won’t be as rich. I have made them both ways, and they both turn out incredible. Just know that fresh rosemary, as with any fresh herb, is always a better choice in cooking.

ProTip: Add a few herbs to a window planter for an easy herb garden year-round. This will make it easy to always have fresh herbs when needed.

Can I Use Dry Beans Instead of Canned? 

Yes! When I have dry great northern beans on hand, I like to use my slow cooker or instant pot to cook them and have for recipes like this. Did you know you can cook them in advance then freeze to thaw and mix into recipes later?

If you plan to use dry beans, you will need to set aside at least an hour of cook time when cooking on the stovetop. You will also need to add significant amounts of water to cook them.

Here’s some help on How to Cook Dried Beans.

Can I Mash These to Use as a Dip? 

You absolutely can! There is nothing better than a rich and easy dip to go with fresh vegetables or chips. This is ideal with some warm pita bread, or even spread inside a whole wheat tortilla as a lunch “burrito”. The flavors are delicious and the high-protein makes it a great snack.

I really love it as a dip since I know I can whip it up in under 15 minutes at the last minute if guests arrive. Everyone is always impressed with this recipe, and I love serving a healthy dish everyone enjoys.

If you want to use this recipe as a dip, half the amount of chicken broth listed in the recipe or eliminate it completely for a more chunky result (as seen in the picture).

More Healthy Side Dish Recipes

If you need some more ideas for healthy side dishes, make sure to check out my other favorites. The braised white beans are one of the easiest to make when using canned beans.  Other great options are my roasted sweet potato cubes, roasted garlic asparagus with balsamic drizzle, healthy broccoli salad, or the delicious maple cranberry brussels sprouts.

This was originally published on December 5, 2013, and updated on January 28, 2020.

Rosemary White Beans

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5 from 1 review

• Author: Whitney Carlson
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 7 servings 1x

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Description

These Copycat Zoe’s Braised White Beans with Rosemary are a healthier version of this flavorful restaurant side. White beans are inexpensive, high in fiber, and high in protein.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cans of Organic Great Northern Beans (rinsed)
• 1 Vidalia Onion, diced
• 1 1/2 cups Organic Chicken Broth
• 1/2 TBSP Minced Garlic
• 2 sprigs of Fresh Rosemary
• Salt & Pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Chop rosemary and onion
2. Caramelize onion, rosemary, and garlic over medium heat until onions are translucent (approximately 3 minutes)
3. Add beans, broth, and salt and pepper
4. Bring to a boil over medium/high heat
5. Over and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionaly

Notes

• If you want these to be similar to Zoe’s, follow the recipe as listed above
• If you want yours to be thicker (more like a dip), eliminate the chicken broth or only use 1/2 – 3/4 cup
• If you lower the liquid, these will start to become “mashed” and they are even better the next day!

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American