This Greek Sausage and Beans recipe (also known as “Loukaniko me Gigantes”) is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a culinary masterpiece. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
So, are you ready to bring a taste of Greece to your table? Try this recipe tonight—you won’t believe how simple and satisfying it is!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried gigante beans, soaked overnight and drained
- 1 pound Greek sausage (loukaniko), sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds. To learn more, check out this article about Loukaniko
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup olive oil, extra virgin
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Feta cheese and Kalamata olives for garnish
Tips:
- If you can’t find gigante beans, large lima beans can be substituted. You can also learn more about this at All About Gigantes Beans.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the sausage and add smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.
- Salt the bean soaking water to help season them from the inside out. This helps to draw out moisture and allows the beans to absorb the salt, enhancing their natural flavor.
- Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor, as it is a key component of the dish. The fruity and robust notes of good olive oil elevate the overall taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Beans: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the soaked and drained gigante beans with 6 cups of fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the beans are tender but not mushy. Drain the beans, reserving about 1 cup of the cooking liquid. This liquid will add richness and flavor to the final dish.
- Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables: In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced Greek sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Searing the sausage not only enhances its flavor but also releases flavorful fats into the oil, which will further enrich the dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Cooking the onions until translucent and the garlic until fragrant is key to building a flavorful base.
- Build the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes (with their juices), dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together. This step allows the tomato paste to caramelize slightly, adding depth to the sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked beans and reserved cooking liquid to the pot. Stir in the browned sausage. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have fully combined.
- Finish and Season: Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that the sausage may already be quite salty, so taste before adding more salt. The lemon juice adds a bright, acidic counterpoint to the richness of the dish.
- Serve: Ladle the Greek Sausage and Beans into bowls. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives, if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
Serving Ideas:
Greek Sausage and Beans is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. For a simple and satisfying weeknight meal, serve it as a main course with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. The hearty beans and flavorful sausage make it a complete and filling meal.
To elevate the dining experience, consider pairing it with a fresh Greek salad. The crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese in the salad provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the beans and sausage. A simple vinaigrette dressing adds a bright acidity that complements the flavors of the dish.
For a more formal occasion, serve Greek Sausage and Beans as part of a meze platter. Arrange small portions of the dish in individual bowls or on a large platter alongside other Greek specialties such as dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), tzatziki (yogurt and cucumber dip), and pita bread. This allows your guests to sample a variety of flavors and textures, creating a truly authentic Greek dining experience.
When plating the dish, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for a pop of color and freshness. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds a touch of elegance and enhances the flavors of the dish. For a more rustic presentation, serve the Greek Sausage and Beans in earthenware bowls or on wooden platters.
Finally, consider pairing your Greek Sausage and Beans with a glass of Greek wine. A crisp white wine, such as Assyrtiko, or a light-bodied red wine, such as Agiorgitiko, would complement the flavors of the dish beautifully. The wine will enhance the dining experience and transport you to the sun-drenched shores of Greece.
FAQs:
- Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans in a pinch, but the flavor and texture won’t be quite as good as using dried beans. If using canned beans, drain and rinse them well before adding them to the pot. You’ll need about 4 cups of cooked beans to replace the 1 pound of dried beans. Also, reduce the cooking time in step 5, as the canned beans are already cooked. Just simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Slow cooking is a great way to develop the flavors of this dish. To make it in a slow cooker, sauté the sausage and vegetables as directed in steps 2 and 3. Then, transfer everything to the slow cooker, including the beans, tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and enough water to cover the beans. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir in the parsley and lemon juice before serving.
- How long does Greek Sausage and Beans last in the refrigerator?
Greek Sausage and Beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will actually improve as it sits, making it a great make-ahead dish. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
- Can I freeze Greek Sausage and Beans?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Keep in mind that the texture of the beans may change slightly after freezing, but the flavor will still be delicious.
- What if I can’t find Greek sausage (loukaniko)?
If you can’t find Greek sausage, you can substitute another type of flavorful sausage, such as Italian sausage or chorizo. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly. You may want to add a pinch of dried oregano and a squeeze of lemon juice to mimic the flavors of loukaniko.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any gluten-containing ingredients. However, it’s always a good idea to check the labels of your ingredients to make sure they are certified gluten-free, especially if you have a severe gluten allergy.
Conclusion:
Greek Sausage and Beans is a dish that embodies the heart and soul of Greek cuisine: simple, wholesome ingredients combined to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to deliver. The combination of tender gigante beans, savory loukaniko sausage, and fragrant herbs is simply irresistible.
Pro Tips: For a richer flavor, add a splash of red wine vinegar during the last few minutes of cooking. This will add a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the dish. If you like a bit of sweetness, add a teaspoon of honey or sugar to the sauce. This will enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and create a more complex flavor profile.
If you are interested in trying other beans recipe, explore more All About Gigantes Beans.
Variations:
- Spicy Greek Sausage and Beans: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick. You can also use a spicy loukaniko sausage.
- Vegetarian Greek Beans: Omit the sausage and add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant. You can also add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Greek Sausage and Beans with Greens: Stir in some chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and flavor.
So, gather your ingredients, put on some Greek music, and get ready to transport yourself to the sunny shores of Greece with this delicious and easy recipe. Kali Orexi!
PrintA Taste of the Mediterranean: Hearty Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe
This hearty and flavorful dish combines simple ingredients into a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients
- 1 lb Greek sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the Greek sausage over medium heat. Remove sausage and set aside.
- Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, chicken broth, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer and return the sausage to the skillet.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or rice.
Notes
For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also substitute other types of beans, such as great northern or kidney beans.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: sausage, beans, greek, easy, skillet