Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans for Easy Weeknight Dinners 🍲🌿
1. Introduction
Looking for a quick and delicious dish that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful meal? Meet creamy tuscan butter beans, a comforting and nutritious butter beans recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This creamy bean dinner combines tender butter beans with a luxurious Tuscan-inspired sauce, making it an easy yet sophisticated dish. Whether you’re a vegetable lover or just want a hearty meal, this Tuscan bean dish will become a household favorite.
2. Ingredients for the Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans
- 2 cans (15 oz) of butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for dairy-free option
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for vegan variations)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Creamy Bean Dinner
Preparing the Base
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Adding the Tomatoes and Spices
Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Sprinkle in dried oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Incorporating the Beans and Cream
Add the drained butter beans to the skillet. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently to combine. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Finishing Touches
Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for added richness. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans
Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
5. Serving Suggestions
This creamy tuscan butter beans recipe pairs beautifully with crusty bread, over cooked pasta, or served alongside a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider adding grilled chicken or seafood. You can also explore more delicious pasta recipes to complement this dish.
6. FAQs About Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of dairy cream, and skip the Parmesan or substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How long does it take to prepare?
The entire process takes approximately 20-25 minutes, making it an ideal quick weeknight dinner.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Effortlessly chop and prepare ingredients for this creamy tuscan bean dish.
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: Ideal for preparing larger batches or keeping the meal warm for serving.
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures you have high-quality pots and pans for perfect cooking results.
8. Conclusion
In just a few simple steps, you can create a rich and satisfying creamy tuscan butter beans dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This butter beans recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Give it a try and enjoy a healthy, hearty meal in no time!
9. Final Tips and Inspiration
Feel free to customize this tuscan bean dish by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Experiment with different herbs and spices to make it uniquely yours. For more quick dinner ideas, browse our collection of easy holiday recipes and flavorful main courses.
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Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans for Easy Weeknight Dinners
A simple, flavorful dish of tender butter beans in a creamy, herby sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Juice of half a lemon
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add drained butter beans, herbs, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in heavy cream and lemon juice. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or rice.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for extra spice.
- This dish pairs well with a side of crusty bread or steamed rice.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
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