Description
This Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans recipe features tender butter beans in a rich, garlic-infused cream sauce with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. A quick, nutritious, and comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cans butter beans (or 2 cups cooked from dry)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional for extra richness)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- Incorporate Butter Beans: Drain and rinse canned butter beans before adding them to the skillet. Stir well to coat them with the aromatic mixture.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped basil. Serve warm with crusty bread or over pasta for a complete meal.
Notes
- 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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side dish
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: italian inspired
Keywords: Tuscan butter beans, creamy butter beans, vegetarian Tuscan recipe, spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, easy bean recipe