In the post-Christmas lull, when fridge contents dwindle to a few lingering festive cheeses, the humble beans on toast often emerges as a saviour. Food writer Georgina Hayden has reimagined this British comfort staple, injecting vibrant Italian flavours with a store-cupboard-friendly recipe for antipasti beans on toast.
From Simple Tin to Italian-Inspired Feast
Hayden's recipe elevates the classic dish beyond merely opening a tin. It retains the essential comfort and ease but introduces a depth of flavour using jarred antipasti vegetables. The process remains wonderfully simple, taking just 10 minutes to prepare and 35 minutes to cook, serving four people generously.
The magic lies in using the oil from the antipasti jars, which Hayden describes as 'liquid gold'. This flavoured oil forms the base for sautéing sliced garlic and shallots, building a robust foundation for the dish.
The Recipe: Building Layers of Flavour
After softening the aromatics, 250g of chopped antipasti joins the pan. Hayden suggests a personal preference of one-third pitted olives to a mix of sun-dried tomatoes and artichokes, but encourages using whatever ratio and vegetables you have available.
Dried oregano and sweet smoked paprika are stirred in, followed by tomato puree, passata, and a 700g jar of cannellini beans (or two 400g tins), including their liquid. After seasoning, the mixture simmers for 20 minutes until rich and slightly reduced.
The Finishing Touches: Crust, Cheese, and Basil
While the beans cook, four slices of ciabatta are toasted. Just before serving, most of a half-bunch of fresh basil is torn into the bean mixture. The entire pan is then placed under a hot grill for three to five minutes to create a delightful crust on top.
The final assembly involves drizzling olive oil on the toasted ciabatta, piling on the fragrant beans, and finishing with the remaining basil leaves. Hayden also recommends grating over any leftover cheese from the fridge, making it a perfect vehicle for those post-holiday odds and ends.
This recipe masterfully bridges the gap between needing a quick, familiar meal and desiring something with more gourmet appeal. It proves that with a few strategic pantry items, a comforting classic can be transformed into a vibrant, Italian-inspired dish without compromising on simplicity.
