Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans — A Creamy Butter Bean Recipe You’ll Make Again and Again
Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans is a dish that tantalizes the senses and warms the heart. This creamy butter bean recipe is a love letter to Italian cuisine, showcasing the hearty texture of butter beans enveloped in a rich, flavorful sauce. With each bite, you’ll experience the delightful harmony of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil, creating an inviting and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy night in, this recipe is worth making time and time again.
In this step-by-step guide, I’ll take you through the simple process of preparing Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans. With easy preparation and minimal ingredients, you’ll find that this dish is not just user-friendly but also incredibly satisfying. Let’s get started on a culinary journey that promises both taste and ease!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the standout features of Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans is its straightforward preparation. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal cooking time, this dish makes weeknight dinners effortless. It’s a family-friendly recipe that everyone can enjoy, with its creamy texture and flavorful essence appealing to both adults and children alike. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, this step-by-step approach ensures success every time.
Additionally, this recipe delivers comfort without sacrificing nutrition. Packed with protein from the butter beans, healthy fats from the olive oil, and vitamins from fresh herbs, it checks all the boxes for a wholesome meal. Plus, it’s adaptable for various dietary preferences, whether you choose to use chicken broth or vegetable broth, and the option for cream or coconut cream for a vegan option is always welcome.
Ingredients for Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans
To create this inviting dish, you will need the following ingredients that complement each other beautifully while bringing forth a symphony of flavors:
- 2 tbsp olive oil: A rich, fragrant oil to form the base of your dish.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses a delightful aroma.
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped: Bright, tangy bites for a burst of flavor.
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth: Provides the necessary moisture and savory undertone.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for vegan): Ensures that creamy texture.
- 2 cans butter beans, drained and rinsed (or 3 cups cooked dried butter beans): The star ingredient that gives the dish its heartiness.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese or 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (for vegan): Adds a delicious savory note.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, torn or chopped: Freshness that elevates the entire dish.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Simple yet essential seasonings to enhance flavor.
- Optional: A handful of spinach, kale, or arugula, for added nutrients; a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice; and lemon zest or juice to brighten the flavor.
Step-by-Step Directions
Creating Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans is a simple process that results in a dish full of love and flavor. Follow these clear steps for a successful cooking experience:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. This will create a beautiful base for your flavors.
Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and translucent. You’ll appreciate the sweet aroma filling your kitchen.
Incorporate minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Careful not to overcook; you want just the right amount of aroma.
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, letting them toast for 1–2 minutes. This step intensifies their flavor, making them the perfect addition to your dish.
Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle simmer. This is where all the flavors start to meld beautifully.
Add in the heavy cream or coconut cream and stir until completely combined, creating a luscious sauce.
Let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes to reduce and deepen the flavors. This is the secret to a wonderfully creamy dish.
Add the butter beans, stirring gently to coat them in the sauce. Allow to simmer for 8–10 minutes, letting them soak up the heavenly flavors.
Incorporate the Parmesan or nutritional yeast, stirring until melted and creamy. This gives your dish that irresistible cheese-like goodness.
Finish with fresh basil and optional greens, stirring just until wilted. This final touch adds color and freshness to your beautiful dish.
Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken naturally, making each bite even more delicious.
Tips & Tricks
To elevate your culinary creation, consider these chef’s secrets and optional extras:
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream for a warm, aromatic undertone that complements the dish beautifully.
- Incorporate additional vegetables like diced zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Garnish with more fresh basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving for a touch of elegance and spice.
- Serve with crusty bread or over rice or pasta to make it a heartier meal – perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce.
- Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or oregano for a slightly different flavor profile depending on your mood.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Presentation plays a significant role in enjoying your meal, and Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans is no exception. Serve this creamy dish in a rustic bowl, garnished generously with torn basil and perhaps a drizzle of olive oil. To complement this savory dish, consider pairing it with:
- A fresh, green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to balance the creaminess.
- Garlic bread or ciabatta to soak up the luscious sauce.
- A simple side of steamed vegetables like green beans or asparagus for a wholesome touch.
- For a wine pairing, opt for a crisp white like Pinot Grigio or a light red such as Chianti to stretch that Italian theme.
Nutritional Information
While the exact nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes, here’s a basic breakdown for a standard serving of Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans:
- Calories: Approximately 350–400 calories per serving
- Protein: 15-20 grams, depending on the cheese used
- Fat: 15-20 grams, largely from olive oil and cream
- Carbohydrates: 40 grams, mostly from butter beans
- Fiber: 10-12 grams, thanks to the beans and any added greens
This dish offers a delightful treat without overwhelming indulgence, striking a balance between comfort food and healthy eating.
Storing Tips & Variations for Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans
For those delicious leftovers, here’s how to handle Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans:
- Storing: Keep the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The flavors often deepen even more as they sit!
- Freezing: You can also freeze this dish for up to three months. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to regain creaminess.
- Healthier Swaps: For a lighter version, swap out heavy cream for a plant-based option like almond or oat milk, and reduce the amount of cheese or use a nutritional yeast-based alternative.
- Creative Variations: Experiment with adding different beans such as chickpeas or white beans for a unique texture, or toss in seasonal vegetables for a nutrition boost.
Conclusion for Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans
Now that you have the complete guide to making Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans, it’s time to get cooking! This creamy butter bean recipe is not only straightforward but bursting with flavors that will impress anyone at your table. Don’t wait; try it today and let your taste buds discover a wonderful new favorite!
FAQs
1. Can I use dried butter beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer dried butter beans, make sure to soak and cook them until tender before adding them to the dish.
2. Is there a vegan substitute for heavy cream?
Yes, you can use coconut cream or any plant-based cream alternative to achieve a similar creamy texture.
3. Can I make this in advance?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and simply reheat it when ready to serve. Just be sure to add a little broth or cream to keep it creamy.
4. What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, try using fresh cherry tomatoes sautéed until they burst; they will add a delightful freshness.
5. How can I make this spicier?
For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic, or include fresh chopped chili peppers to the dish according to your heat preference.
Now that you have all the details, roll up your sleeves and start whipping up this scrumptious recipe today!
Print
Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy butter bean recipe with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for vegan)
- 2 cans butter beans, drained and rinsed (or 3 cups cooked dried butter beans)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese or 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (for vegan)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, torn or chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: spinach, kale, or arugula, red pepper flakes, lemon zest or juice
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Incorporate minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, letting them toast for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add in the heavy cream or coconut cream and stir until completely combined.
- Let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes to reduce and deepen the flavors.
- Add the butter beans, stirring gently to coat them in the sauce.
- Stir in the Parmesan or nutritional yeast until melted and creamy.
- Finish with fresh basil and optional greens, stirring just until wilted.
- Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
Notes
For added flavor, consider using a splash of white wine or incorporating other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
