Gigantes Plaki: Baked Greek Beans

Gigantes Plaki has quickly become one of my favorite ways to enjoy white beans. Growing up, white beans meant cozy stews with lamb and a side of rice vermicelli—a taste of home. But lately, I’ve been on a recipe adventure, exploring new ways to savor these vegetarian protein powerhouses. It’s been a delicious journey, from comforting Italian-style white bean and kale dishes to hearty Fasolada Greek Bean Soup.

Today, I’m excited to share a new favorite—Gigantes Plaki, a traditional baked Greek bean dish that’s simple to make but bursting with flavor. The combination of tender beans, rich tomato sauce, and fragrant herbs is sure to transport you straight to a Greek taverna. So, let’s dive into this easy, flavorful dish together!

What is Gigantes Plaki?

Gigantes Plaki is a traditional Greek dish that transforms simple ingredients into a hearty and flavorful masterpiece. “Plaki” refers to the method of baking ingredients, allowing them to meld together beautifully as they cook. This dish is typically made with large lima beans, also known as “Gigantes” (giant beans), which are prized for their creamy texture and ability to absorb the rich flavors of the tomato-based sauce.

With its combination of tender beans, olive oil, tomatoes, and fragrant herbs, Gigantes Plaki is a true gem of Greek cuisine. It’s a dish that’s often enjoyed as a vegetarian main course or served as part of a meze platter alongside other Greek favorites.

Dry or Canned Beans

In cooking this baked Greek beans dish, I opted for the hearty texture of dry large lima beans, providing a satisfying bite to each mouthful. However, the beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility – you can easily substitute with other white beans like butter beans or cannellini beans, allowing you to tailor the dish to your preference. For those with a time constraint! While traditionally soaked overnight and cooked until almost tender, canned large lima beans streamline the process, reducing the cooking time to 30 minutes. It’s a culinary journey where you choose the path that suits your schedule without compromising flavor.

Baked Greek Beans Ingredient:

• Dry Large Lima Beans or Canned Large Lima Beans: Dried beans, soaked overnight and cooked until almost tender, infuse depth, while canned beans offer convenience with a cooking time of just 30 minutes.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: A generous amount contributes to the dish’s luxurious creaminess and tenderness
• Onion: The finely chopped onion adds a sweet and savory base, providing a subtle sweetness that enhances the dish’s complexity.
• Celery: Celery brings a refreshing, mild crunch, complementing the beans and adding a layer of freshness to the ensemble.
• Carrots: Finely chopped carrots add natural sweetness and vibrant color, balancing the savory notes and enhancing the dish’s visual appeal.
• Garlic: These are a garlic lover’s delight! Six cloves sliced into the mix offer a robust, aromatic kick. 
•  Bay Leaves, Oregano, Cinnamon, and Red Chili Flakes: Together, they enrich Gigantes Plaki with layers of depth, warmth, and Mediterranean essence.
• Red Wine Vinegar: A splash of red wine vinegar brings a hint of acidity. Elevating the overall flavor profile with a tangy note.
• Canned Chopped Tomatoes with Juice or Fresh Plum Tomatoes (with an additional 1/2 cup stock if using fresh): Tomatoes contribute a luscious, tangy element. Canned tomatoes with juice or fresh tomatoes with added stock enhance the dish’s juiciness and acidity.
• Crumbled Feta Cheese: A finishing touch of crumbled feta adds a creamy, salty kick that complements the beans’ overall richness.
• Fresh Chopped Parsley: Fresh parsley provides a burst of herbal freshness, balancing the dish’s richness and adding a vibrant touch.

Serving Suggestions

Gigantes Plaki: If you prefer a simple and satisfying meal, relish it as a hearty main course. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread to soak up every bit of the savory sauce. Or elevate it further by serving it over pasta or rice for a more substantial dining experience.

 Gigantes Plaki also makes a perfect companion to other dishes. Use it as a delectable side to grilled chicken or lamb chops. They allow the creamy beans and rich sauce to complement and enhance the flavors of your main course. These Greek baked beans will be a satisfying addition to your table.