There’s a certain warmth that envelops the kitchen when preparing a welcoming meal, and these Creamy Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans certainly deliver that inviting sensation. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Tuscany, this dish combines lush butter beans with rich umami from sundried tomatoes and fragrant garlic, resulting in a heavenly creamy concoction that’s perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging after a long day.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility; whether you’re hosting a dinner party or seeking a quick vegetarian weeknight meal, this dish can adapt to your needs. In just 15 minutes, you can craft a meal that not only delights the palate but also caters to various dietary preferences, as I’ve included a vegan option too! Grab your skillet and prepare for a culinary experience that might just have you hearing wedding bells!
Why will you love these Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans?
Simplicity: This recipe is a breeze to make, requiring just 15 minutes and basic cooking skills, perfect for busy weeknights!
Savory: Rich, umami flavors come from the sundried tomatoes and garlic, making every bite a taste sensation.
Versatile: Whether served as a main dish or a side, this recipe is adaptable for special occasions or casual dinners.
Diet-Friendly: It’s vegetarian and offers a vegan option, satisfying a wide range of dietary needs without compromising on taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your guests with this elegant yet easy dish that feels indulgent but is perfect for a cozy night in.
Quick and Satisfying: You won’t be stuck in the kitchen for hours; spend more time enjoying a delightful meal with loved ones!
Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans Ingredients
• Get ready for a delightful dish!
For the Beans
- Butter Beans – A creamy base; can substitute with cannellini or chickpeas for variation.
For the Sauce
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; swap for vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- Garlic Cloves – Boosts flavor; consider increasing for a garlicky punch.
- Sundried Tomatoes – Provide umami and sweetness; roasted grape tomatoes work if needed.
- Tomato Paste – Thickens sauce and deepens flavor; use fresh tomatoes as an alternative if preferred.
- Tuscan Marry Me Blend – Crucial for that authentic flavor; homemade or store-bought works well.
- Sea Salt – Balances flavors; adjust to taste for perfection.
- Organic Heavy Cream – Ensures a rich, creamy texture; coconut cream can replace it for a vegan option.
- Organic Vegetable Stock – Adds liquid; ensure it’s gluten-free if that’s a concern.
- White Cooking Wine – Adds acidity; omit or use more vegetable stock if preferred.
- Freshly-Squeezed Lemon – Brightens flavors; use the right amount for optimal zest.
For the Greens
- Chopped Kale – Enhances nutrition and texture; spinach or collards can be used instead for variety.
For the Topping
- Freshly-Grated Parmesan – Completes the dish with a creamy finish; swap for dairy-free cheese if going vegan.
Prepare to enjoy these Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans that will make every meal feel like a special occasion!
How to Make Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans
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Melt Butter: In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat until bubbly and fragrant. This creates a base for the delicious sauce.
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Sauté Garlic: Add 3 minced garlic cloves to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute. You want the garlic to be fragrant and just lightly golden for the best flavor.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in 1 tablespoon of the Tuscan Marry Me blend, ½ teaspoon of sea salt, ½ cup of chopped sundried tomatoes, and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined and warmed through.
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Add Cream Mixture: Gradually pour in ½ cup of organic heavy cream, 1 cup of organic vegetable stock, juice from ½ a freshly-squeezed lemon, and ¼ cup of white cooking wine. Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Thicken Sauce: Whisk in ½ cup of freshly-grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. This step brings that creamy indulgence we all crave!
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Stir in Greens & Beans: Add 2 cups of chopped kale and 1 can of drained butter beans. Simmer for 5-6 minutes until the beans are warmed through and the kale has softened.
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Serve Hot: Dish out your Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans while hot. Serve them with rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or warm garlic bread. For a lovely touch, garnish with additional Parmesan.
Optional: Sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans
- Creamy Alternatives: Use oat or almond milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter, dairy-free sauce that still maintains flavor.
- Cook Dried Beans: If using dried butter beans, remember to soak them overnight and cook thoroughly before adding to the dish.
- Adjust Sauce Thickness: For a thicker sauce, simmer longer; add vegetable stock or cream to achieve a lighter consistency as needed.
- Season to Taste: Always taste your sauce before serving and adjust seasonings like salt, lemon juice, or Tuscan blend to suit your preference.
- Easy Leftovers: Reheat remnants by adding a splash of cream or stock to restore creaminess, keeping your leftovers delightful!
How to Store and Freeze Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool down the dish before sealing to keep it fresh.
Freezer: You can freeze the Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans for up to 2 months. Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable stock or cream to restore the creamy texture.
Make-Ahead Tips: Consider preparing the sauce ahead of time and store it separately from the beans to maintain freshness—all you need to do is combine and heat when ready to serve!
What to Serve with Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans?
Transform your meal into a delightful experience by complementing these creamy butter beans with perfectly paired sides and beverages.
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Garlic Bread: The crunch and warmth of garlic bread provide a satisfying contrast to the creamy richness of the butter beans, making for the ideal bite.
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Fluffy Rice: A bed of fluffy rice soaks up the luscious sauce, allowing each spoonful to be bursting with flavor. It’s a simple yet classic pairing that never fails.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes complements the beans beautifully, creating a comforting and indulgent experience that invites seconds.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a vibrant mix of colors and flavors, enhancing the dish with their natural sweetness and crunch. Try carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for a great combo!
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Crisp Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad with a zesty vinaigrette perfectly balances the richness of the butter beans, bringing brightness to your plate. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and avocado for extra flavor!
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Chilled White Wine: Pair with a nice chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio; their crisp acidity complements the savory flavors and enhances the overall dining experience.
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Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with a silky chocolate mousse; its rich, smooth texture offers a delightful contrast to the savory main.
Indulge in these pairings, and let your culinary creativity shine!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans are fantastic for meal prep, making your weeknight dinners a breeze! You can prepare the sauce (excluding the kale and butter beans) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply sauté the garlic and combine all the other sauce ingredients, then let it cool before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable stock or cream if needed to restore creaminess. When you’re ready to serve, just stir in the kale and butter beans, simmer for about 5-6 minutes, and enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort!
Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans Variations
Feel free to make this delightful dish your own with some fun twists and substitutions!
- Bean Swap: Replace butter beans with black or pinto beans for a different flavor profile that still retains creaminess.
- Vegan Delight: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a fully vegan experience.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like asparagus or broccolini for a colorful and nutritious boost. The freshness brings an exciting contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Spice It Up: Increase the Tuscan Marry Me blend for a bolder flavor, or add red pepper flakes for a mild heat to tantalize your taste buds.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs such as basil or parsley just before serving for an aromatic lift and vibrant color.
- Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a crunchy texture that adds a delightful contrast to the creaminess.
- Citrus Twist: Squeeze in some lime juice in addition to lemon for an extra citrusy tang that brightens the dish.
- Dairy-Free Cheese: If you’re avoiding dairy but craving that cheesy finish, try a high-quality dairy-free cheese that melts well for a satisfying topping.
Experimenting with these variations not only keeps your meals exciting but also allows you to tailor them to your family’s tastes and dietary needs!
Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right butter beans?
Absolutely! When selecting butter beans, look for those that are plump and have a smooth skin. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles as they may indicate spoilage. If you’re using dried beans, soak them overnight to ensure they cook evenly.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store your Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It’s best to let them cool to room temperature before sealing. You can enjoy them reheated in a skillet with a splash of cream or vegetable stock to maintain their creamy texture.
Can I freeze the Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Butter Beans?
Definitely! This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. I recommend portioning it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. While warming, add a little vegetable stock or cream for smoothness.
What if my sauce is too thick?
Not a problem! If your sauce thickens more than you’d like, just whisk in a touch of vegetable stock or cream gradually, over low heat, until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir continuously to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Of course! This recipe is vegetarian and easily made vegan by substituting butter and cream with vegan alternatives. Always double-check labels for gluten-free options if that is a concern, especially for the vegetable stock. Feel free to check for any potential allergens based on your specific dietary needs.
How can I add more flavor to the dish?
Sure thing! For a flavor boost, consider adding more garlic or your choice of herbs such as thyme or basil. You can also experiment with spices in the Tuscan Marry Me blend to find the perfect balance that suits your taste.
Irresistible Tuscan 'Marry Me' Butter Beans for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat until bubbly and fragrant.
- Add 3 minced garlic cloves to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of the Tuscan Marry Me blend, ½ teaspoon of sea salt, ½ cup of chopped sundried tomatoes, and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste.
- Gradually pour in ½ cup of organic heavy cream, 1 cup of organic vegetable stock, juice from ½ a freshly-squeezed lemon, and ¼ cup of white cooking wine.
- Whisk in ½ cup of freshly-grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens.
- Add 2 cups of chopped kale and 1 can of drained butter beans, simmer for 5-6 minutes.
- Dish out your Tuscan 'Marry Me' Butter Beans while hot, garnishing with additional Parmesan.