Name: Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans for a Delicious 30-Minute Meal
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cans (15 oz each) butter beans, drained and rinsed; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for vegan version; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan cheese); 1 tsp dried Italian herbs; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans for a Delicious 30-Minute Meal 🥘✨

Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans for a Delicious 30-Minute Meal 🥘✨

1. Introduction

Are you in search of a quick and hearty vegetarian dinner that bursts with Mediterranean flavors? Look no further than this Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans recipe—an easy-to-make, flavorful dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. This creamy bean dish is perfect for weeknights when you’re short on time but still crave something satisfying and nutritious. Loaded with tender butter beans, smoky tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs, this dish embodies the essence of Tuscan cooking. Whether you’re vegan or simply want a hearty meatless meal, this recipe hits all the right notes.

2. Ingredients for Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans

2 cans of butter beans or Tuscan butter beans, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup fresh spinach or kale
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a vegan option
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

3. How to Make Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans — Step-by-Step

Preparation of Ingredients

Start by draining and rinsing the butter beans to remove excess sodium and get rid of any canning liquid. Mince the garlic and halve the cherry tomatoes for a fresh pop of flavor.

Sautéing the Garlic and Tomatoes

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their juices.

Adding the Beans and Seasonings

Stir in the drained butter beans along with the dried Italian herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, giving the beans time to absorb the flavors.

Incorporating the Cream and Greens

Add the heavy cream or coconut cream to the skillet, stirring well to create a creamy sauce. Simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until the dish thickens slightly. Toss in the fresh spinach or kale and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.

Final Touches and Garnish

Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or over cooked grains for a complete meal.

4. Tips for Perfect Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans

If tomato flavor is too mild, increase the red pepper flakes for heat.
For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.
Use fresh herbs for a brighter taste, or dried herbs for convenience.
This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad.

5. Storage and Reheating

Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. The creamy texture might thicken upon refrigeration—stir in a splash of water or broth to loosen it during reheating.

6. Serving Suggestions

This creamy bean dish is versatile! Serve it with:

Crusty artisan bread for dipping
Over cooked pasta or rice for a hearty dinner
A side of roasted vegetables for added nutrition

For a complete vegetarian or vegan meal, pair it with a fresh side salad or roasted Brussels sprouts.

7. FAQs About Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans

Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?

Fresh beans can be used, but they need to be cooked until tender before adding to the recipe. Canned beans are more convenient and save time.

What are some substitutions for heavy cream?

You can substitute with coconut cream, cashew cream, or even plant-based milk combined with a thickener for a dairy-free version.

How long does it take to prepare?

The entire process takes approximately 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick vegetarian dinner.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, since it doesn’t contain gluten-containing ingredients, it is naturally gluten-free.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — Make chopping and prepping your ingredients effortless, ensuring your dish comes together quickly and efficiently.
Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker — If you’d like to simmer this recipe for a longer period or prepare it in advance, this slow cooker is perfect.
CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — A durable cookware set that helps you sauté, simmer, and serve with ease.

Upgrade your kitchen tools with high-quality gadgets that enhance your cooking experience!

9. Conclusion

In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a delightful, creamy Tuscan butter beans dish that’s rich in flavor, healthy ingredients, and perfect for a quick vegetarian dinner. Whether you’re cooking for family or a cozy night in, this recipe will become a staple in your weeknight meal rotation. Explore more delicious vegetarian recipes and culinary tips on our website. Happy cooking!

Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans for a Delicious 30-Minute Meal