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Delicious Dandelion Greens and White Bean Bruschetta with Lemon Anchovy Oil

dandelion greens and white bean bruschetta - featured image

A quick and easy bruschetta featuring creamy white beans, peppery dandelion greens, and a vibrant lemon anchovy oil drizzle. Perfect for appetizers or light meals with a fresh, savory, and slightly bitter flavor profile.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups dandelion greens, washed and roughly chopped (young tender leaves preferred)
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) white beans (cannellini or great northern), rinsed and drained
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice and zest of 1 medium lemon
  • 2 small anchovy fillets, finely chopped (or anchovy paste as a substitute)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Baguette or crusty bread, sliced into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) pieces
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the lemon anchovy oil: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, finely chopped anchovy fillets, minced garlic, lemon zest, and juice of one lemon. Add a pinch of salt and red pepper flakes if using. Let sit for about 10 minutes to meld flavors.
  2. Wilt the dandelion greens: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped dandelion greens and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened but still bright green. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Prepare the bean mixture: Lightly mash the rinsed and drained white beans in a large bowl, leaving some texture. Stir in the wilted dandelion greens, a drizzle of the lemon anchovy oil (reserve some for drizzling), and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Toast the bread: Preheat oven broiler or toaster oven. Arrange bread slices on a baking sheet and toast for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Optionally, rub each toasted slice with a cut garlic clove for extra flavor.
  5. Assemble the bruschetta: Spoon a generous amount of the bean and dandelion mixture onto each toasted bread slice. Drizzle additional lemon anchovy oil over the top.
  6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and an extra crack of black pepper. Serve immediately.

Notes

If dandelion greens are too bitter, blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds before sautéing to mellow flavor. Do not over-mash the beans to maintain rustic texture. Lemon anchovy oil can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before use. For gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread or crispbreads. Anchovies can be substituted with capers for a vegan adaptation.

Nutrition

Keywords: dandelion greens, white bean bruschetta, lemon anchovy oil, appetizer, quick recipe, healthy snack, vegetarian option, gluten-free option