Olive Oil Borlotti Beans Recipe

When it comes to summer cuisine, one of the first olive oil dishes that comes to mind is undoubtedly borlotti beans. Prepared with fresh borlotti beans, tomatoes, carrots and premium extra virgin olive oil, this classic recipe is a favourite on summer tables thanks to its light texture, nourishing ingredients and flavours that become even richer the following day.

The secret to delicious olive oil borlotti beans lies in using the right cooking technique to keep the beans whole and tender. Rather than cooking over a high heat, gentle and controlled cooking helps preserve both the texture of the beans and the natural flavours of the vegetables.

Enamel-coated cast iron casseroles distribute heat evenly across the entire cooking surface, helping every ingredient cook at the same rate. As a result, the beans become tender without breaking apart, while the flavours of the tomatoes and olive oil are evenly absorbed throughout the dish.

Ingredients

• 500 g fresh borlotti beans
• 1 medium onion
• 1 carrot
• 2 tomatoes
• 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional)
• 1 cup hot water
• Fresh parsley

Method

1. Prepare the Beans

Shell and rinse the fresh borlotti beans. If using dried borlotti beans, soak them overnight and parboil them before cooking.

2. Create the Aromatic Base

Heat the olive oil in an enamel-coated cast iron casserole. Gently sauté the onion and garlic, then add the diced carrot and cook for a few minutes.

3. Add the Tomatoes

Add the grated or diced tomatoes and allow the sauce to reduce slightly.

4. Add the Borlotti Beans

Add the borlotti beans to the casserole. Stir in the salt, optional sugar and hot water, then cover with the lid.

5. Cook Gently

Cook over a medium-low heat for approximately 40–45 minutes. Thanks to the excellent heat retention of the cast iron casserole, you can cook the dish evenly without needing to lift the lid frequently.

6. Allow the Dish to Rest

Once cooked, allow the borlotti beans to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for several hours. Olive oil dishes develop a richer, more balanced flavour after resting.

Why Are Borlotti Beans Even More Delicious in an Enamel-Coated Cast Iron Casserole?

Legumes such as borlotti beans produce the best results when cooked slowly over a gentle, controlled heat. Sudden high temperatures may cause the outside of the beans to break down before the inside has softened properly.

Enamel-coated cast iron casseroles:

• Help distribute heat evenly.
• Retain heat for an extended period.
• Provide efficient cooking over a low heat.
• Help preserve the natural texture of vegetables and legumes.
• Require no additional seasoning thanks to the enamel coating.
• Can be taken straight from the hob to the table with their elegant design.

Chef's Tips

• Avoid stirring the borlotti beans too frequently.
• Add the beans only after the tomato sauce has reduced slightly.
• Cook over a low heat for the best results.
• Allow the dish to rest for several hours before serving.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestion

Serve the olive oil borlotti beans chilled with lemon wedges, fresh parsley and thinly sliced red onion to add colour and freshness to your summer table.

LAVA's cast iron serving platters and serving dishes provide a natural and elegant presentation, whether serving the dish warm or cold.