Creamy Cannellini Bean Side Dish Recipe - Quick, Healthy & Ready in 25 Minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 bay leaf
• 2 15.5 oz cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1-2 tsp dried thyme
• 3 handfuls of fresh basil, rough chop
• salt & pepper
• 3 slices turkey bacon (I LOVE Applegate brand!), small dice
• 3 cups vegetable broth

Instructions:

1. In a pot, over medium heat, add a small drizzle of olive oil and the bacon. There is very little fat in this bacon which is why you need a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking and to get it going. Cook for several minutes, until browned and slightly crisp.
2. Add the remaining ingredients into the pot, season with the thyme, salt and pepper. Simmer on low.After simmering for about 10 minutes they should be soft enough to begin mashing the beans with a potato masher. Do so until a nice creamy consistency. Allow to simmer until the beans have thickened and all the broth is absorbed, stirring occasionally. Taste for salt and pepper, garnish with some fresh basil and enjoy!