Gigantes Plaki (Greek-Style Baked Giant Beans)

Gigantes Plaki is a traditional Greek baked bean dish made with tender butter beans, fresh vegetables, and rich tomato sauce. Flavored with herbs, garlic, and spices, then finished with crumbled feta and olive oil, this hearty Mediterranean recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, vegetarian meals, or serving with rustic bread.

Ingredients

• Extra-virgin olive oil
• ½ large onion, roughly chopped
• 1 large carrot, peeled and roughly chopped
• 1 celery stalk, roughly chopped
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
• Kosher salt, to taste
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juices
• 6 Tbsp (3 fl oz) water
• ¼ cup chopped flat-leaf parsley, plus extra for garnish
• ½ Tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• ¾ tsp dried oregano
• ¼–½ tsp red pepper flakes
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
• ⅛–¼ tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 dried bay leaf
• 1 (15-ounce) can butter beans, drained and rinsed (or the largest beans available)
• Creamy feta cheese, crumbled
• Rustic bread, for serving

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

• Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 375°F.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• In a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, add 1/8 cup olive oil.
• Once the oil shimmers, add onion, carrot, celery, and garlic.
• Season with a pinch of salt (about ¼ tsp).
• Cook, stirring frequently, until vegetables soften, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spices

• Add diced tomatoes with their juices and 6 Tbsp water.
• Season with another pinch of salt.
• Stir in parsley, thyme, oregano, red pepper flakes, black pepper, cinnamon, and the bay leaf.

Step 4: Add the Beans

• Stir in the butter beans and cook for 5 minutes over high heat.
• Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 5: Bake

• Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until thickened and the top is lightly golden, about 20–30 minutes.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

• Remove and discard the bay leaf.
• Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and crumble feta on top.
• Serve with rustic bread for a complete meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Greek flavors with rich tomato sauce and tender butter beans.
• Comforting and hearty, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
• Can be served warm as a main dish or as a side for Mediterranean meals.

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Tips

• Use the largest butter beans available for authentic texture.
• Stir occasionally during sautéing to avoid burning the vegetables.
• Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
• Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow flavors to meld.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Beans: Substitute with cannellini or lima beans if necessary.
• Herbs: Add dill or basil for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Vegan Option: Skip the feta for a vegan-friendly dish.
• Spices: Add smoked paprika or a dash of cumin for a twist.

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FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce and beans in advance and bake just before serving.

How long will leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze Gigantes Plaki?
Yes, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.

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Serving

• Serve hot with rustic bread or pita.
• Pair with a Greek salad or roasted vegetables for a full Mediterranean meal.
• Garnish with additional parsley or feta for presentation.

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Suggestions

• Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil before serving for extra richness.
• Add roasted red peppers for added color and sweetness.
• Serve as part of a mezze platter with olives, hummus, and tzatziki.