Name: Tuscan Butter Beans with Spinach: A Creamy Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cans Butter Beans; 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; 1 medium Onion; 3 cloves Garlic; 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes; 4 cups Fresh Spinach; 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme; 1 teaspoon Dried Basil; 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes; 1 cup Vegetable Broth; 1/2 cup Heavy Cream; to taste Salt; to taste Black Pepper

Jump to Recipe

Tuscan Butter Beans with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a creamy dish bursting with Mediterranean flavors, perfect for dinner. The combination of butter beans, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a delightful medley that is both satisfying and nutritious. This recipe not only showcases how to cook Tuscan butter beans but also introduces you to the world of Tuscan cuisine, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Tuscan Butter Beans with

This dish stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish. Second, it’s a healthy option packed with protein and fiber, thanks to the butter beans and spinach. Third, the creamy texture from the heavy cream balances the richness of the sun-dried tomatoes, creating a delightful taste experience. Additionally, this recipe is vegetarian, making it a fantastic option for those looking to reduce meat consumption. The use of herbs like thyme and basil adds a fragrant touch, while the red pepper flakes give it just the right amount of heat. Lastly, it’s versatile; you can enjoy it as a main course or a side, and it pairs well with a variety of other dishes.

Ingredients for Tuscan Butter Beans with

Gather these items:

2 cans Butter Beans (Feel free to substitute with white beans or cannellini beans.)
2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Extra virgin olive oil is best for an authentic taste.)
1 medium Onion (Yellow or white onions are great choices.)
3 cloves Garlic (Always use freshly minced garlic for maximum flavor.)
1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes (Roasted red peppers can offer a delightful twist if you prefer.)
4 cups Fresh Spinach (You can swap in kale for a heartier touch.)
1 teaspoon Dried Thyme (Fresh thyme works wonders if you have it on hand.)
1 teaspoon Dried Basil (Although optional, it’s recommended for that extra depth.)
1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.)
1 cup Vegetable Broth (Chicken broth is a good substitute if needed.)
1/2 cup Heavy Cream (For a dairy-free option, coconut cream or a non-dairy milk works perfectly.)
to taste Salt (Adjust to taste as you go along.)
to taste Black Pepper (Adjust to taste as you go along.)

How to Make Tuscan Butter Beans with Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 2: Sauté the diced onion for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Step 3: Add minced garlic; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Toss in chopped sun-dried tomatoes; cook for 2 minutes to combine flavors.
Step 5: Sprinkle in thyme, basil, and red pepper flakes, and stir to integrate.
Step 6: Pour in vegetable broth, scraping the skillet’s bottom to release caramelized bits.
Step 7: Bring to a simmer, then add butter beans and gently stir to combine.
Step 8: Let simmer for 5-7 minutes to blend flavors, stirring occasionally.
Step 9: Add spinach in batches until wilted and fully incorporated.
Step 10: Stir in heavy cream, allowing it to create a creamy sauce.
Step 11: Season with salt and pepper; let everything cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 12: Serve hot, garnished with additional sun-dried tomatoes or herbs as desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Tuscan Butter Beans with

Keep these in mind:

Using high-quality olive oil enhances the flavor significantly.
Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
For a heartier meal, consider adding Tuscan beans with garlic and herbs or serving it with crusty bread.

Best Ways to Serve Tuscan Butter Beans with

This dish can be enjoyed in multiple ways. Serve it as a Tuscan-style butter beans side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or over a bed of quinoa for a healthy twist. For a vegetarian option, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or a simple tomato salad.

How to Store and Reheat Tuscan Butter Beans with

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave for a quick option. This makes it a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a healthy Tuscan butter bean dish throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tuscan Butter Beans with

What’s the secret to perfect Tuscan Butter Beans with?

The secret lies in the quality of ingredients and allowing the dish to simmer long enough for the flavors to develop. Using fresh herbs and a good quality olive oil will enhance the overall taste.

Can I make Tuscan Butter Beans with ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time. Just reheat it gently before serving, and it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Tuscan Butter Beans with?

Avoid overcooking the spinach, as it can become mushy. Also, be mindful of the seasoning; taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

Variations of Tuscan Butter Beans with You Can Try

There are plenty of ways to adapt this recipe. Consider adding sausage for a heartier dish, or substitute the spinach with kale for added nutrients. You can also incorporate seasonal vegetables for a fresh twist, or add lemon and parsley for a bright flavor profile. Each variation maintains the core of this delicious vegetarian Tuscan butter bean stew, making it versatile for any occasion.