I first had this at an Italian restaurant called Umberto's in Myrtle Beach, SC. They serve this as a starter with every meal. It was so delicious that I had to take a chance and ask for the recipe. I didn't really think they would give it to me, but lo and behold the waiter came back with a typed up copy. Apparently I wasn't the first person to ask, and the restaurant was nice enough to have a revised, simplified version on hand for customers who asked.
I've made this several times since, and it is pretty filling. It is also really easy to make! It's almost like a really thick soup and we usually just eat as a main course with some Italian bread.
Italiana Beans and Greens
2 cans of Northern White Beans
3/4 of a can of chopped collard greens (drained)
1 can of chopped tomatoes with juice
4 chopped garlic cloves
1 small onion, sliced
1 tbsp. olive oil
1 tbsp. ham base (Make sure you use this!)
Salt & Pepper to taste
Mix everything in a large, glass baking dish. Cook for 1 1/2 hours, covered.
