Tuscan-Inspired Butter Beans

Introduction

Sometimes, the most comforting meals come from simple, everyday ingredients. This Tuscan-Inspired Butter Beans recipe is a perfect example of that philosophy. I first made this dish on a chilly evening, looking for something warm, satisfying, and easy to prepare. From the moment the garlic and onions hit the pan, the kitchen was filled with the kind of aroma that makes you want to linger over dinner. When I tasted the final dish, I was immediately hooked! The tender butter beans, infused with the savory flavors of garlic, tomatoes, and Italian herbs, were exactly what I had hoped for. Even my kids, who are sometimes hesitant about beans, couldn’t get enough of this dish. This recipe has since become a regular on our dinner table, and I’m sure it will soon be a favorite in your home as well!

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Why You’ll Love This Tuscan-Inspired Butter Beans Recipe

Tuscan-Inspired Butter Beans are the perfect blend of simplicity and bold flavors. This dish is hearty, packed with nutrients, and incredibly satisfying, making it ideal for any time of year. The combination of creamy butter beans with sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh tomatoes creates a flavorful base that is elevated by the earthy taste of smoked paprika and the freshness of spinach or kale. The optional addition of Parmesan cheese adds a rich, savory finish, while a slice of crusty bread for dipping makes this dish even more irresistible.

What’s more, this recipe is versatile enough to serve as a main course for a cozy vegetarian meal or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or even pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering, these Tuscan-Inspired Butter Beans are sure to impress. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any) make for a great lunch the next day, keeping their flavor intact and even improving over time.

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Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the beans:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) butter beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, and thyme)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
• Crusty bread, for serving

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Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn the garlic. The aroma at this point is sure to get your taste buds ready for the rest of the dish!
2. Cook the Tomatoes
   • Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir them occasionally for 5-7 minutes, cooking them until they soften and start releasing their juices. The tomatoes will become a bit saucy, which will help create the base of the dish.
3. Add the Butter Beans
   • Stir in the butter beans, vegetable or chicken broth, dried Italian herbs, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. This is the stage where the dish starts to come together with a comforting, hearty flavor.
4. Wilt the Greens
   • Add the chopped spinach or kale to the skillet and stir until the greens are wilted and tender, about 2-3 minutes. The greens will add a nice burst of color and extra nutrients, making the dish even more satisfying.
5. Serve
   • Ladle the butter beans into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for an added touch of color and flavor. Serve warm with crusty bread on the side for dipping.

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 12g
  • Sugar: 7g
• Protein: 14g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Cholesterol: 5mg
• Vitamin A: 150% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 40% of the DV
• Calcium: 15% of the DV
• Iron: 20% of the DV

(Note: The nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.)

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Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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How to Serve

Tuscan-Inspired Butter Beans can be served in various ways depending on the occasion. Here are some ideas:

• As a main dish: Ladle the butter beans into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
• With bread: Serve the beans alongside a slice of crusty bread for dipping into the rich, flavorful broth. A hearty sourdough or baguette would work wonderfully.
• With a side salad: Pair the beans with a light side salad of mixed greens, arugula, or even a tangy citrus-based slaw to balance the richness of the dish.
• With protein: If you’re looking to serve this as a side dish, it pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even a vegetarian protein like grilled tofu or tempeh.

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Additional Tips

1. Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a fresh chili pepper to the sautéed garlic for a little kick. Adjust to your desired spice level.
2. Use fresh beans: If you prefer to use dried butter beans instead of canned, cook them ahead of time until tender and use them in place of canned beans.
3. Make it vegan: Skip the Parmesan cheese and opt for nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep the recipe vegan-friendly.
4. Store leftovers: This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth if necessary to thin it out.
5. Add extra vegetables: You can mix in other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms to bulk up the dish and add more flavor.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I use different beans?
   • Yes, if you can’t find butter beans, other beans like cannellini or great northern beans would work well in this recipe.
2. What is the best broth to use?
   • You can use vegetable broth for a vegan version, or chicken broth for added richness. Both options work well in this dish.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the beans and store them in the fridge for a few days. Reheat gently before serving.
4. How do I make this dish gluten-free?
   • The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but if you’re serving it with bread, just make sure to choose a gluten-free loaf.
5. What can I substitute for smoked paprika?
   • If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a small amount of cumin can be used as an alternative. Smoked paprika adds a distinct smoky flavor, so if you can, try to use it.
6. Can I freeze this dish?
   • Yes, the butter beans can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, add a bit more broth to restore the texture.
7. Can I use fresh spinach instead of kale?
   • Absolutely! Fresh spinach is a great substitute for kale in this recipe.
8. What other herbs can I use?
   • Fresh basil, rosemary, or sage would also complement the dish wonderfully. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs!
9. Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?
   • Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative, and you’ll have a delicious vegan dish.
10. How do I know when the beans are done?

• The beans are ready when they are heated through and have absorbed the flavors of the broth and seasonings. They should be tender and flavorful, not mushy.

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Conclusion

Tuscan-Inspired Butter Beans is a comforting, nutrient-packed dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you serve it as a hearty main course or a flavorful side dish, it’s sure to impress. The combination of creamy beans, aromatic herbs, and the savory goodness of spinach or kale makes this a dish everyone will enjoy. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a warming and satisfying meal on the table in no time. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful recipe and bring a taste of Tuscany to your home tonight!

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