Description
Tuscan Butter Beans with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato is a creamy, veggie-packed delight that is both comforting and craveable. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and impressive enough for dinner parties.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 ounce each) butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon oil from the sun-dried tomato jar
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or single cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 3 cup fresh spinach
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Saute the Aromatics: Heat the sun-dried tomato oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Build the Sauce Base: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, allowing it to darken slightly. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute, stirring well to combine.
3. Add Beans and Simmer: Deglaze the pan with the apple cider vinegar and let it reduce for a few seconds. Pour in the broth and add the butter beans. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Thicken the Sauce: Using the back of a spoon, gently mash about half a cup of beans against the side of the skillet to help thicken the sauce. Stir to incorporate.
5. Finish with Cream and Spinach: Add the spinach and stir until just wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and immediately stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve hot with crusty bread to soak up all the rich, creamy sauce.
Notes
This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding broth or water if necessary.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Vegetarian
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg