Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans! This comforting dish is a warm embrace of flavors, combining creamy butter beans with the aromatic essence of garlic and fresh herbs. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a vibrant side dish for your next gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. The marriage of hearty beans and bright lemon makes it not only nutritious but also a treat for the taste buds. Let’s cook up this deliciousness and bring some Tuscan sunshine into your home!
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, allowing it to shimmer and infuse with warmth.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant, about 1 minute. The aroma will be irresistible!
- Stir in the diced tomatoes along with their juice, oregano, and basil. Let this mixture cook for about 5 minutes, allowing it to simmer and thicken slightly, creating a luscious sauce.
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer, inviting all the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add the butter beans to the skillet, stirring gently to combine, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, letting the beans warm up thoroughly and absorb the delightful flavors.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes, brightening the dish with vibrant greens.
- Remove from heat and mix in the lemon zest and juice, giving it an invigorating freshness that lifts the entire dish.
- Serve the butter beans topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a garnish of fresh basil for a touch of elegance.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to substitute canned butter beans with other beans like cannellini or white beans if you prefer.
- For an extra kick, add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- This dish is perfect for meal prepping; just store in the fridge and reheat for a quick meal.
- Consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
Cooking Techniques
Mastering this dish relies on a few simple techniques:
- Sauteing the garlic until it’s just golden ensures a fragrant base, avoiding burning.
- Letting the tomatoes simmer melds the flavors beautifully, so don’t rush this step!
- Adding the spinach at the end prevents overcooking, retaining its vibrant color and nutrients.
FAQ
- Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Just ensure that you use vegetable broth and omit the Parmesan cheese or choose a vegan alternative. - Can I freeze leftover butter beans?
Yes! This dish freezes well. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to an airtight container. - What else can I pair with these butter beans?
They work wonderfully alongside grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
Conclusion
This Tuscan Marry Me Butter Beans recipe is a delightful addition to your repertoire, combining simplicity with robust flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. With its heartwarming qualities and the ability to come together in just 25 minutes, it’s a dish you’ll return to time and time again. So gather your ingredients, put on that apron, and let’s create some magic in the kitchen!