Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Short Description

This Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans recipe is a delightful and hearty dish packed with rich flavors and nutritious ingredients. Featuring tender butter beans simmered in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce with wilted spinach and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, this meal offers a satisfying balance of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy notes. Whether served as a comforting main course or a flavorful side dish, this recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or an elegant gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Comforting: The rich, velvety sauce creates a luxurious texture that pairs beautifully with the hearty butter beans.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins from spinach and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Easy and Quick: A simple, one-pan meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile: Can be enjoyed on its own, with crusty bread, over pasta, or alongside roasted vegetables.
• Diet-Friendly: Naturally vegetarian, with easy modifications for vegan and gluten-free diets.

Ingredients

• Butter beans (canned or cooked from dry)
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves
• Onion
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Spinach
• Heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative)
• Parmesan cheese (optional for extra richness)
• Vegetable broth
• Italian seasoning
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil (for garnish)

Directions

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Slice the sun-dried tomatoes into thin strips and add them to the pan. Sauté for a minute to release their flavors.
3. Incorporate Butter Beans: Drain and rinse canned butter beans before adding them to the skillet. Stir well to coat them with the aromatic mixture.
4. Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in vegetable broth, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Add Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Add Cream and Spinach: Reduce the heat to low and stir in heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative). Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
6. Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce thicken slightly.
7. Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped basil. Serve warm with crusty bread or over pasta for a complete meal.

Variations

• Vegan Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and omit Parmesan cheese.
• Spicy Kick: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Protein Boost: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.
• Extra Veggies: Incorporate mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for more depth and texture.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the consistency. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use dried butter beans instead of canned?

Yes! If using dried butter beans, soak them overnight and cook until tender before proceeding with the recipe.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with crusty bread, pasta, rice, or grilled vegetables.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and omit Parmesan cheese.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Absolutely! Cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage make excellent additions.

What’s the best substitute for butter beans?

You can use cannellini beans, great northern beans, or chickpeas.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer longer or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry if needed.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, the flavors develop even more when stored, making it a great make-ahead meal.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all ingredient labels confirm gluten-free status.

Can I add cheese alternatives?

Yes, nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan are great alternatives.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen spinach before adding it to prevent excess water in the sauce.

Conclusion

This Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes recipe is a comforting, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that suits a variety of diets. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish for guests, this creamy, flavor-packed recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and savor the rich, delicious taste of Tuscan-inspired comfort food!

Print