Description
This Tuscan-Inspired Butter Beans recipe is a quick and comforting dish that perfectly blends creamy butter beans with fresh cherry tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and vibrant greens. Enhanced with Italian herbs and smoked paprika, it offers a flavorful and wholesome meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, ideal for a hearty lunch or dinner served alongside crusty bread.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 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
For Serving
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
- Crusty bread
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil until shimmering.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant, without browning.
- Add cherry tomatoes: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 3 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their juices.
- Incorporate butter beans and broth: Add the drained and rinsed butter beans along with 1 cup of vegetable or chicken broth to the skillet.
- Season the mixture: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all flavors.
- Simmer to blend flavors: Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally so the beans can absorb the aromatic broth and spices.
- Add greens: Mix in 2 cups of chopped fresh spinach or kale, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the greens wilt down and incorporate into the dish.
- Finish and serve: Remove from heat. Optionally, sprinkle with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve hot alongside crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can substitute kale with spinach based on your preference.
- Using vegetable broth keeps the recipe vegetarian; chicken broth adds a richer flavor.
- For a vegan option, omit Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- The smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth; adjust the amount to your taste.
- Butter beans can be replaced with cannellini or great northern beans if unavailable.
- This recipe pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
