Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans

Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans offer a delightful mix of comforting flavors and vibrant ingredients. This vegetarian dish features creamy butter beans paired with fresh spinach, savory tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. It’s a perfect choice for a cozy dinner or a healthy side dish that will win over anyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans

This recipe stands out for its simplicity and flavor. It’s packed with nutritious ingredients, making it not just delicious but also beneficial for your health. The combination of butter beans and fresh vegetables provides a hearty meal without the heaviness. Plus, the recipe adapts easily for various dietary preferences, ensuring it appeals to a broad audience. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and satisfying.

Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans

A delightful mix of creamy butter beans, fresh spinach, and savory tomatoes, perfect for a cozy dinner or healthy side dish.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine Italian, Vegetarian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Beans

• 1 cup dried butter beans (or 2 cans of cooked butter beans, drained and rinsed) If using dried beans, soak overnight.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped Adds flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced For aromatic flavor.
• 1 can 14 ounces diced tomatoes with their juice Provides moisture and flavor.
• 1 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth Use as desired.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil Optional seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano Optional seasoning.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adjust to spice preference.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste For seasoning.
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves Adds freshness.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese For garnishing and flavor.
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish For presentation.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• If using dried butter beans, place them in a large bowl, cover with water, and soak overnight.
• The next day, drain and rinse the beans, then transfer them to a pot. Cover with fresh water, bring to a boil, and simmer for 1-1.5 hours until tender.
• If using canned beans, simply drain and rinse.

Cooking

• In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
• Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, broth, dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
• If using cooked dried beans, add them to the skillet. If using canned beans, add them directly to the skillet. Stir to combine.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until just wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
• Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the bean mixture and allow it to melt slightly before stirring it in.
• Serve the Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the dish for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Keyword comfort food, Healthy Recipe, Tuscan Butter Beans, Vegetarian Dish

How to Make Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried butter beans (or 2 cans of cooked butter beans, drained and rinsed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes with their juice
• 1 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. If using dried butter beans, place them in a large bowl, cover with water, and soak overnight. The next day, drain and rinse the beans, then transfer them to a pot. Cover with fresh water, bring to a boil, and simmer for 1-1.5 hours until tender. If using canned beans, simply drain and rinse.
2. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, vegetable or chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
5. If using cooked dried beans, add them to the skillet. If using canned beans, add them directly to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until just wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the bean mixture and allow it to melt slightly before stirring it in.
9. Serve the Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
   

How to Serve Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans

Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans can be served as a main dish or a side. For a complete meal, pair it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or quinoa. Consider adding a light salad on the side for extra freshness. This dish makes a stunning centerpiece for vegetarian gatherings and will captivate even the most devoted meat lovers.

How to Store Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the dish for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Tips to Make Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans Perfect

• Experiment with different beans for varied textures and flavors. Lima beans or chickpeas can also work well.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a fresh, zesty flavor.
• For an extra kick, include Italian sausage or turkey bacon for a flavorful twist.

Flavor Variations

• For a smoky flavor, add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika.
• Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a colorful presentation.
• Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of dried for an aromatic boost.

Pro Tips for Success

• If using dried beans, ensure they are cooked thoroughly to achieve the right texture.
• Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
• Taste and season as you go to build a dish that suits your palate.

FAQs About Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans

Final Thoughts

Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans are more than just a meal; they are an experience filled with rich flavors and nourishing ingredients. This simple yet elegant recipe not only satisfies hunger but also leaves a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to enjoy it. Whether you’re making it for yourself or for a gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Try it today and fall in love with a new favorite!