Italian White Bean Burrito with Salsa Cruda

There’s a certain magic that happens when humble ingredients come together to create something truly special. I remember the first time I encountered this Italian White Bean Burrito. It wasn’t in a bustling trattoria or a grand Italian villa, but rather on a crisp autumn afternoon in my own kitchen. I was experimenting, as I often do, with the idea of transforming classic Italian flavors into a more casual, portable format. The simplicity of cannellini beans, garlic, and basil, embraced by a warm tortilla and brightened by a vibrant salsa cruda – it was an unexpected revelation, a delightful surprise that quickly became a go-to for a satisfying and flavorful lunch. It’s a dish that proves Italian cuisine can be both comforting and surprisingly innovative.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 4 burritos
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

For the Salsa Cruda:

• 1 large ripe tomato, chopped
• 4 large green olives or 4 large black olives, pitted and chopped
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
• 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Burrito:

• 4 large burrito-size flour tortillas
• 1 (19 ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup coarsely grated asiago cheese
• 16 fresh basil leaves

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Spatula
• Oven

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salsa Cruda: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped ripe tomato, chopped olives (whether green or black), and chopped green onions. Add the balsamic vinegar. Season generously with salt and pepper to your liking. Stir everything together gently to mix the flavors. Set aside the salsa to allow the flavors to meld.

2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This relatively high heat is perfect for quickly warming the tortillas and melting the cheese without drying them out.

3. Assemble the Bean Mixture: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed cannellini beans, minced garlic, and coarsely grated asiago cheese. Stir these ingredients together until they are well combined and the cheese is evenly distributed amongst the beans. This creates a savory, creamy base for your burritos.

4. Prepare the Tortillas: Lay the four burrito-size flour tortillas flat on your baking sheets. You can use one large baking sheet or two smaller ones, depending on your oven space.

5. Fill the Tortillas: Evenly spread the bean mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Ensure you leave a 2-inch border around the edges of each tortilla. This border is crucial for allowing the tortillas to fold and seal properly when rolled.

6. Melt the Cheese: Carefully place the baking sheets with the filled tortillas into the preheated 425°F (220°C) oven. Bake for 3 to 5 minutes, or just until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them, as they can brown quickly.

7. Add the Salsa: Once the cheese is melted, carefully remove the tortillas from the oven. Spoon the prepared Salsa Cruda evenly over the bean and cheese mixture on each tortilla.

8. Incorporate the Basil: Arrange the fresh basil leaves over the Salsa Cruda on each tortilla. The warmth of the tortilla and filling will gently wilt the basil, releasing its aromatic oils.

9. Roll and Serve: Roll up the tortillas tightly to form your burritos. It’s best to serve these immediately while they are warm and the cheese is still melted.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Bean Texture: For a creamier filling, you can lightly mash about a quarter of the cannellini beans with a fork before mixing them with the garlic and cheese. This will create a more cohesive and spreadable base.
• Garlic Intensity: If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, you can lightly sauté the minced garlic in a teaspoon of olive oil for about 30 seconds before adding it to the bean mixture. Be careful not to burn it.
• Olive Choice: While green olives offer a briny zest and black olives a mellower flavor, feel free to use your favorite. The key is the pitted and chopped preparation.
• Tortilla Warmth: If your tortillas are a bit stiff and prone to cracking, you can warm them slightly in a dry skillet or microwave for about 15-20 seconds before filling. This makes them more pliable.
• Cheese Varieties: While Asiago provides a wonderful sharp, nutty flavor that complements the beans beautifully, you could also experiment with a blend of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano for a similar Italian-inspired profile.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Italian White Bean Burritos are best enjoyed fresh, right off the baking sheet, when the cheese is perfectly melted and the tortillas are warm. They make for a delightful and quick lunch or a light supper.

If you happen to have any leftovers, allow them to cool completely before storing. Wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

To reheat, you can either place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through, or gently reheat them in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed. Microwaving is also an option, but may result in a less desirable texture for the tortilla.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	345.7 kcal
Calories from Fat
Total Fat	6.3 g	9%
Saturated Fat	1.5 g	7%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	847.5 mg	35%
Total Carbohydrate	58.5 g	19%
Dietary Fiber	10 g	39%
Sugars	5.5 g	22%
Protein	13.5 g	26%

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free option, simply substitute the flour tortillas with your favorite gluten-free tortillas. Ensure they are large enough to accommodate the filling.
• Dairy-Free: Omit the asiago cheese and consider adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast to the bean mixture for a cheesy flavor, or use a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the bean mixture or finely mince a small jalapeño and add it to the salsa cruda.
• Herb Swap: While basil is classic, you could also try adding fresh oregano or parsley to the salsa cruda for a different herbaceous note.
• Bean Variety: While cannellini beans offer a creamy, mild flavor, Great Northern beans or even butter beans would also work well in this recipe.

FAQs

Q: Can I prepare the salsa cruda ahead of time?
A: Yes, the salsa cruda can be made a few hours in advance. Storing it in the refrigerator will allow the flavors to meld even further.

Q: What if my tortillas break when I try to roll them?
A: Ensure your tortillas are warm and pliable before filling. If they are still difficult to roll, you might need to use slightly smaller tortillas or ensure your filling is not too bulky.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
A: While this recipe focuses on simplicity, you could add finely chopped sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers to the bean mixture for added flavor and texture.

Q: How can I make the bean filling smoother?
A: For a smoother filling, mash about half of the cannellini beans with a fork or potato masher before mixing them with the garlic and cheese.

Q: Is it necessary to bake the burritos before adding the salsa?
A: Baking the burritos briefly before adding the salsa helps to melt the cheese and warm the bean mixture, creating a cohesive and inviting base for the fresh salsa.

Final Thoughts

This Italian White Bean Burrito with Salsa Cruda is a testament to the beauty of uncomplicated cooking. It’s a dish that’s both sophisticated in its flavor profile and wonderfully accessible. The way the creamy, savory bean mixture harmonizes with the bright, zesty salsa cruda, all wrapped in a tender tortilla and kissed by the aroma of fresh basil, is truly delightful. I encourage you to try this recipe, perhaps on a busy weeknight when you crave something nourishing yet quick, or as a refreshing lunch option. I’d love to hear about your experience and any creative variations you discover. Enjoy every bite!