Fresh Shell Beans with Caramelized Onions and Sage

Transform simple ingredients into a rustic masterpiece with this recipe for Fresh Shell Beans with Caramelized Onions and Sage. Featuring tender, nutty shell beans—such as cranberry, lima, or heirloom varieties—paired with deeply caramelized onions and the earthy aroma of fresh sage, this dish is a symphony of comforting flavors and textures. A splash of broth deglazes the pan, infusing the beans with rich umami while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Perfect as a hearty side or served over crusty bread for a light vegetarian meal, this versatile recipe is both nourishing and indulgent. With minimal prep and a focus on wholesome ingredients, it’s a must-try for lovers of seasonal produce and bold flavors.

Nutriscore Rating: 78/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh shell beans (e.g., cranberry, lima, or heirloom varieties)
• 2 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 leaves fresh sage leaves, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the fresh shell beans under cold water. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large saucepan, combine the shell beans and enough water to cover them by at least 2 inches. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the beans are tender but not falling apart (about 20–30 minutes, depending on the variety of the beans). Drain and set aside.

Step 3

While the beans are cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the thinly sliced onions to the skillet, along with a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes or until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Reduce the heat if necessary to avoid burning.

Step 5

Add the minced garlic and sliced sage leaves to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 6

Increase the heat to medium-high and pour the chicken or vegetable broth into the skillet. Stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

Step 7

Add the cooked shell beans to the skillet. Season with the remaining salt and black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 8

If desired, stir in 1 tablespoon of butter for extra richness just before serving.

Step 9

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm as a side dish or over crusty bread for a light main course.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(931.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1169.6

Total Fat 56.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 14.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.0g
Cholesterol 31mg	0%
Sodium 2073.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 127.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 34.5g	0%
Total Sugars 17.8g
Protein 41.1g	0%

Vitamin D 7IU	0%
Calcium 317.3mg	0%
Iron 12.3mg	0%
Potassium 2433.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 43.1%

Protein: 13.9%

Carbs: 43.0%