Marry Me Butter Beans

These Marry Me Butter Beans are the perfect blend of rich flavors and creamy texture, making them an ideal choice for both cozy dinners and special occasions. Packed with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs, this vegan dish is not only satisfying but also gluten-free, catering to a variety of dietary preferences. Serve it alongside crusty bread or over a bed of greens for a delightful meal that will impress anyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in under 30 minutes.
• Flavor-Packed Ingredients: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs creates a mouthwatering experience that leaves you wanting more.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these butter beans on their own, or pair them with toast or salads for a complete meal.
• Healthy and Nutritious: This recipe is not only vegan but also rich in fiber and protein, making it a wholesome choice for dinner.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for easy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Garlic press (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for combining all ingredients evenly while allowing enough space for simmering.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop your vegetables efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping shallots and garlic quick and easy.
• Garlic press: If you love garlic flavor, this tool can save time by mincing garlic quickly.

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Ingredients

These rich & creamy sun-dried tomato butter beans make the easiest vegan and gluten-free dinner idea!

For the Base

• 2 Tablespoons vegan butter
• 1 large shallot (peeled & finely diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (marinated in oil & chopped)
• 1 Tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes

For the Butter Beans Mixture

• 15 ounces canned butter beans (1 can with the liquid added to the pot – do not strain!)
• 2 Tablespoons coconut cream
• 1 Tablespoon nutritional yeast
• 1/2 Tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• Salt & pepper to taste (season to your liking here!)

How to Make Marry Me Butter Beans

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by finely dicing the shallots, chopping the sun-dried tomatoes, and mincing the garlic. A garlic press can be helpful here if you have one.

Step 2: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

Add the vegan butter to a large pot over medium heat. Once melted and sizzling:
1. Add in the shallots and minced garlic.
2. Stir together and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spices

Next, add in:
1. Chopped sun-dried tomatoes
2. Tomato paste
3. Dried oregano
4. Dried thyme
5. Chili flakes

Stir well and sauté with shallots and garlic for another minute until everything is combined.

Step 4: Add Butter Beans

Now it’s time to bring in:
1. The canned butter beans along with their liquid (do not strain!).
2. Coconut cream
3. Nutritional yeast
4. Lemon juice

Stir everything together thoroughly.

Step 5: Simmer the Mixture

Bring the butter bean mixture to a simmer:
1. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes to reduce some of the liquid while heating through.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once the sauce has thickened:
1. Add in chopped fresh basil.
2. Season with salt & pepper according to your taste preferences.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Serve your Marry Me Butter Beans warm with a generous slice of toasted bread on the side. Enjoy this delightful dish that’s sure to impress!

How to Serve Marry Me Butter Beans

Marry Me Butter Beans are not just a dish; they can be a delightful centerpiece for any meal. These creamy, rich butter beans pair beautifully with various sides and toppings, making them versatile for different occasions.

With Toasted Bread

• Serve Marry Me Butter Beans with a thick slice of toasted bread for a hearty option. The crispy texture complements the creaminess of the beans perfectly.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Spoon the butter beans over fluffy rice or quinoa. This adds extra fiber and makes for a filling meal.

As a Pasta Sauce

• Use the Marry Me Butter Beans as a sauce for your favorite pasta. Toss in some fresh vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish the dish with additional fresh basil or parsley. This will enhance the flavor and presentation, adding a pop of color.

As a Side Dish

• Serve these butter beans as a side alongside roasted vegetables or grilled chicken. Their rich taste pairs well with lighter proteins.

How to Perfect Marry Me Butter Beans

Perfecting your Marry Me Butter Beans involves attention to detail in preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shallots, garlic, and herbs enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Control the Heat: Cook over medium heat to avoid burning the garlic, which can make the dish bitter.
• Don’t Strain the Beans: Keeping the liquid from canned butter beans makes them creamier and helps integrate flavors.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and chili flakes according to your preference.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or kale for additional nutrients and texture.
• Store Properly: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Butter Beans

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Butter Beans can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes add comfort and richness that complements butter beans.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables provides a colorful and nutritious contrast.
3. Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette balances the richness of the beans.
4. Grilled Asparagus: The smoky flavor of grilled asparagus pairs well with creamy dishes like butter beans.
5. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers adds freshness to your plate.
6. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli offers crunch and nutrition, making it an excellent choice.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings a burst of sweetness that complements savory flavors beautifully.
8. Mediterranean Pita Chips: Serve crunchy pita chips on the side for dipping into those creamy butter beans!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Marry Me Butter Beans, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes and tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the soaking step: Failing to soak beans can lead to a less creamy texture. Always soak your butter beans beforehand for the best results.
• Overcooking garlic: Burnt garlic can ruin your dish’s flavor. Sauté garlic just until fragrant, usually about 1-2 minutes.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting as you go may leave your dish bland. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference throughout cooking.
• Straining the beans: Draining the liquid from canned butter beans removes essential creaminess. Always add the liquid from the can for a rich texture.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Skipping fresh basil will lessen the flavor profile. Add fresh herbs right before serving for a burst of freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Marry Me Butter Beans

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Marry Me Butter Beans

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil; heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a lid, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until hot, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Marry Me Butter Beans that may help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use dried butter beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried butter beans. Make sure to soak them overnight and cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the recipe.

What can I substitute for nutritional yeast?

If you don’t have nutritional yeast, you can use grated vegan cheese or omit it entirely for a different flavor profile.

How spicy is this recipe?

The chili flakes add a moderate level of heat. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice preference or omit them if desired.

Can I customize Marry Me Butter Beans?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrients or swap out herbs based on what you have on hand.

What do I serve with Marry Me Butter Beans?

These creamy butter beans pair well with toasted bread or over rice or quinoa for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Butter Beans are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. Perfect as a main dish or side, this recipe allows room for customization by adding your favorite veggies or spices. Give it a try and enjoy this delightful meal!