Marry Me Butter Beans with Creamy Tuscan Sauce
If you’re on the lookout for a dish that’s not only comforting but also bursting with flavor, look no further than Marry Me Butter Beans with Creamy Tuscan Sauce. This delightful recipe combines buttery smooth beans with a rich, creamy sauce that’s infused with the vibrant colors and aromas of Tuscan herbs. As you indulge in this dish, you’ll find it hard to resist its charms, perhaps even convincing you to say "I do" to this delicious meal!
The moment you begin preparing this dish, the robust aroma of garlic wafts through your kitchen, mingling beautifully with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the earthy notes of fresh basil. Each scoop offers a luscious texture that blends the creaminess of the sauce with the tender butter beans. The warmth and depth of the flavors will embrace you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening.
This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also ideal for cozy weekend mornings when you crave something hearty yet effortless. If you’re in need of a quick meal, this dish comes together in about 30 minutes, allowing you to savor every bite without the stress of lengthy preparation.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 3g
(Source: USDA Food Data Central, for butter beans and heavy cream)
Why Make This Recipe
This dish is a celebration of simple, accessible ingredients that create a memorable meal. The creamy Tuscan sauce enhances the natural flavors of the butter beans, making each bite a mouthful of comfort. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, elegant brunches, or even as a quick and satisfying option for busy weeknights. The ease of preparation combined with the remarkable taste makes this dish a staple in any home cook’s recipe arsenal.
How to Make Marry Me Butter Beans with Creamy Tuscan Sauce
Ingredients:
- 2 cans butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften, around 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the butter beans and spinach, and cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and add the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
How to Serve
Enjoy this dish on its own, or pair it with crusty bread for a delightful dipping experience. It also complements a refreshing side salad or can be served alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee for a comforting meal any time of the day.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Expert Tips
- Opt for fresh ingredients wherever possible to amplify the flavors. Ripening tomatoes can enhance the sweetness of your sauce.
- If you want extra texture, consider adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy contrast.
- For the best creamy consistency, allow the sauce to simmer gently – avoid boiling it to maintain that luscious mouthfeel.
Delicious Variations
- Vegan Version: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a wonderfully creamy alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for a hint of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use frozen butter beans?
Yes, you can use frozen butter beans. Just thaw completely before adding them to the skillet. -
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, cashew cream, or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version. -
Is there a substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Nutritional yeast or any hard cheese that you enjoy can be a suitable substitute. -
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free; just ensure any added ingredients (like broth) are also gluten-free. -
What are some suggestions for leftover butter beans?
Leftover butter beans can be mashed into a spread, blended into a soup, or tossed into salads.
In conclusion, the Marry Me Butter Beans with Creamy Tuscan Sauce is a dish that brings warmth and joy, perfect for any occasion. It’s an easy recipe to whip up, ripe with flavor, and sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. We invite you to try it, relish the aromas, and share your thoughts or any variations you create. Your kitchen—and your taste buds—will thank you!
Print
Marry Me Butter Beans with Creamy Tuscan Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting dish featuring buttery smooth butter beans in a rich, creamy Tuscan sauce, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 cans butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften, around 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the butter beans and spinach, and cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and add the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Notes
Opt for fresh ingredients for better flavor. For extra texture, add toasted pine nuts or walnuts. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for the best consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
