Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans
Creamy Tuscan butter beans are a delightful dish that combines rich, buttery flavors with the freshness of spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. This recipe is not only easy to make but also provides a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for any occasion. Whether you are cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone around the table.
A Personal Story Behind My Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans Journey
I first discovered creamy Tuscan butter beans during a visit to a quaint little trattoria while traveling through Italy. The first bite was a revelation—warm, creamy, and bursting with flavors. It reminded me of the importance of comfort food in bringing people together. Since then, I have made it my mission to recreate this delicious dish at home, and I’m excited to share it with you today.
What Makes This Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out because it is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. It is a one-pan dish that comes together quickly and easily, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The combination of butter beans, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a perfect blend of textures and flavors that is both comforting and nutritious. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more plant-based proteins into your diet!
The Full Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (28g)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped
- 1/2 to 1 cup vegetable broth (120 to 236 mL)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) butter beans (lima beans), drained (425g cans)
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream (can substitute half-and-half) (236 mL)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan (50g)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- In a large sauté pan or pot over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Make sure to keep an eye on the heat to prevent the butter from browning.
- Add 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon oregano, 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of roughly chopped sun-dried tomatoes, along with 1/2 to 1 cup of vegetable broth, and the 2 cans of drained butter beans. Cook uncovered on medium heat for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Remove the pan from the heat. Add 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach and stir until wilted. This should take about a minute. The spinach adds a lovely color and nutrients to the dish.
- Mix in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of grated parmesan, and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Serve the creamy Tuscan butter beans warm with crusty bread, over rice, or with pasta. Enjoy your meal!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans
This creamy Tuscan butter beans dish can be served in multiple ways. Try it with crusty bread for dipping, over a bed of fluffy rice for a hearty meal, or tossed with your favorite pasta for a comforting dinner. For a twist, add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even proteins such as grilled chicken or shrimp for a more filling option. Each variation brings a new flavor experience to the table!
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans
Can I make this dish vegan?
No problem! Simply substitute the butter with olive oil, the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream, and omit the parmesan or use a vegan cheese substitute.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy Tuscan butter beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the creamy butter beans for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans
Equipment
- large sauté pan or pot
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped
- 0.5 to 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 cans (15 oz each) butter beans, drained
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream can substitute half-and-half
- 0.5 cup grated parmesan
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large sauté pan or pot over medium heat.
- Add garlic, salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and ground black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, vegetable broth, and drained butter beans. Cook uncovered for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat, add spinach and stir until wilted.
- Mix in heavy cream, grated parmesan, and basil until combined.
- Serve warm with bread, rice, or pasta.