Greek Baked Beans Recipe with Tomato and Olive Oil Recipe

July 21, 2025

Baked giant beans, known in Greek as Gigantes Plaki (yee-GAHN-tess plah-KEE), are a beloved traditional dish in Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. Made with large white beans baked slowly in a rich tomato, greek olive oil, and herb sauce, this hearty, plant-based meal is a staple of Greek home cooking.

Often served as a main course, meze, or side dish, gigantes plaki is praised for its bold flavor, comforting texture, and nutritional value. As one of the most iconic Greek baked bean recipes, it showcases the essence of Mediterranean cooking—simple ingredients transformed through time, care, and lots of olive oil.

Ingredients for Baked Giant Beans (Gigantes Plaki)

The success of a flavorful Greek giant beans recipe starts with high-quality, wholesome ingredients. This gigantes plaki dish combines giant white beans with a rich tomato-olive oil sauce, aromatic vegetables, and Mediterranean herbs for a satisfying, plant-based meal.

Core Ingredients:

Giant White Beans (Gigantes or Butter Beans): Traditionally made with Greek gigantes beans, but large lima beans or butter beans work well as substitutes. Soaked and cooked until tender.
Onion, Garlic, Celery, and Carrots: These form the aromatic base of the sauce, adding sweetness and depth.
Crushed Tomatoes or Tomato Passata: Use quality canned tomatoes or smooth passata for the rich tomato base. Fresh, ripe tomatoes can also be used in season.
Extra Virgin Greek Olive Oil: A generous amount is essential. Greek cuisine relies on olive oil not just for cooking but as a core flavor. Use cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil for best results.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and Dill: These herbs brighten the dish and add a distinctly Greek aroma.
Dried Oregano and Bay Leaf: Infuse the beans with earthy, herbal depth during the baking process.
Salt and Black Pepper: Season to taste. A small pinch of chili flakes can be added for gentle heat (optional).

Optional Additions:

Spinach or Swiss Chard – Stir in leafy greens for added nutrition and texture.
Crumbled Feta Cheese – Sprinkle on top before serving for a creamy, salty contrast.
Lemon Zest – Adds a fresh finish to balance the richness.

How to Make Baked Giant Beans (Gigantes Plaki)

Making gigantes plaki at home is simple and rewarding. Whether you're using dried or canned beans, this Greek baked beans recipe comes together with basic pantry ingredients and a little oven time. Here’s how to make baked giant beans with rich flavor and perfect texture.

Step 1: Soak and Cook the Beans

If using dried gigantes or butter beans, soak them overnight in plenty of water.
Drain, rinse, and boil in fresh water for 45–60 minutes until tender but not mushy.
Alternatively, use canned large white beans—rinse well and skip to Step 3.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato-Vegetable Sauce

In a pan, heat extra virgin olive oil and sauté chopped onion, celery, carrots, and garlic until softened.
Stir in crushed tomatoes or tomato passata, bay leaf, oregano, and season with salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes.
Simmer the sauce for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Combine Beans and Sauce

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a baking dish, mix the cooked beans with the tomato-vegetable sauce.
Stir in fresh dill and parsley for brightness.
Drizzle more olive oil over the top for extra richness.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Bake uncovered for 45–60 minutes, or until the top is golden, the sauce has thickened, and the edges are bubbling.
If the beans start drying out, cover loosely with foil during the last 15 minutes.

Tips for Best Results:

Use a ceramic or glass baking dish for even heat distribution.
Let the dish sit for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
Make it a day ahead—gigantes plaki tastes even better the next day.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Giant Beans

One of the best things about baked giant beans (gigantes plaki) is their versatility. This rich and comforting Greek bean dish can be served in many ways, making it a perfect fit for both everyday meals and festive gatherings.

1. Serve Warm or at Room Temperature

Gigantes plaki can be enjoyed straight from the oven or allowed to cool to room temperature, as is often done in traditional Greek homes. The flavors deepen over time, making it ideal for meal prep and leftovers.

2. Pair with Classic Greek Accompaniments

Looking for ideas on what to serve with baked giant beans? Try these Mediterranean pairings:

Crusty bread or pita – perfect for soaking up the olive oil and tomato sauce.
Feta cheese – the salty, creamy contrast to the sweet baked beans.
Kalamata olives – for added briny flavor.
Greek salad (Horiatiki) – to bring freshness and crunch to the plate.

3. Serve as Meze, Main, or Side Dish

As a meze: Offer small portions alongside other appetizers like dolmades, tzatziki, and roasted vegetables.
As a vegetarian main course, add a grain like orzo, bulgur, or rice on the side.
As a side dish: Pair with roasted lamb, grilled fish, or stuffed vegetables for a fuller Greek meal.

FAQs About Baked Giant Beans (Gigantes Plaki)

1. Can I use canned beans for gigantes plaki?

Yes, you can use canned butter beans or large white beans as a shortcut. Just make sure to rinse and drain them well before mixing with the tomato sauce. While traditional recipes use dried gigantes beans, canned beans still produce a delicious and time-saving alternative.

2. What beans are used in Greek baked beans?

Authentic Greek baked beans use gigantes beans, a large white bean native to Greece. These can be substituted with lima beans or butter beans if gigantes aren't available. The key is their large size and creamy texture, which holds up well during baking.

3. Is gigantes plaki served hot or cold?

Gigantes plaki can be served hot, warm, or at room temperature. It's often enjoyed at room temperature in Greek households, especially as part of a mezze spread. The flavors actually deepen as it cools, making leftovers even tastier the next day.

4. Can I make gigantes plaki ahead of time?

Absolutely. Baked giant beans are a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare and bake them up to 2 days in advance. Store in the refrigerator and reheat gently, or serve cold as a side or lunchbox option. It also freezes well for up to 2–3 months.

5. Are baked giant beans vegan?

Yes, traditional gigantes plaki is 100% vegan. It’s made with beans, vegetables, tomatoes, herbs, and olive oil—no meat, dairy, or animal products. It's also naturally gluten-free and ideal for those following a Mediterranean or plant-based diet.

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