Marry Me Butter Beans

These Marry Me Butter Beans are a delightful and creamy dish that you can whip up in no time. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this vegan and gluten-free recipe features rich flavors from sun-dried tomatoes and herbs. The combination of butter beans and coconut cream creates an irresistible texture, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in 30 minutes.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs infuses each bite with rich flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal as a main course or side dish, it’s perfect for any meal of the day.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber from the butter beans, it keeps you satisfied without weighing you down.
• Easy Clean-Up: One-pot cooking means fewer dishes to wash after your meal!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process 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 sautéing ingredients and simmering the butter beans to perfection.
• Garlic press: Makes mincing garlic quick and easy, ensuring more flavor in less time.

Ingredients

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

Main Ingredients

• 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
• 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: Prep Your Ingredients

• Finely dice the shallots, chop the sun-dried tomatoes, and mince the garlic. A garlic press can speed up this process.

Step 2: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

• Add the vegan butter to a large pot over medium heat.
• Once melted, add shallots and garlic. Stir together and sauté for about 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Tomatoes

• Mix in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried thyme, and chili flakes.
• Stir well for another minute until everything is combined.

Step 4: Combine Butter Beans

• Pour in the canned butter beans along with their liquid—this helps create a creamy texture.
• Add coconut cream, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice.

Step 5: Simmer

• Stir everything together. Bring to a gentle simmer.
• Cook for about 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld while reducing some liquid.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Basil

• Once thickened, stir in fresh basil. Season with salt & pepper according to your taste.

Step 7: Serve

• Serve warm alongside toasted bread. Enjoy every creamy bite!

How to Serve Marry Me Butter Beans

Marry Me Butter Beans are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. They are versatile and pair well with many sides or toppings, making them perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual lunch.

With Toasted Bread

• Serve the butter beans alongside thick slices of toasted bread. This adds a crunchy texture that complements the creamy beans beautifully.

On a Bed of Greens

• Place the butter beans on a bed of fresh spinach or arugula. The peppery greens will enhance the flavors and add freshness to your meal.

As a Topping for Baked Potatoes

• Scoop the creamy butter beans onto baked potatoes for a hearty and filling dish. It’s an excellent way to elevate a simple potato into something special.

In Tacos

• Use Marry Me Butter Beans as a filling for soft corn tortillas. Add avocado, salsa, and fresh cilantro for an exciting twist on traditional tacos.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Serve the butter beans over cooked rice or quinoa. This creates a complete meal packed with protein and fiber, perfect for any time of day.

How to Perfect Marry Me Butter Beans

To ensure your Marry Me Butter Beans turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh shallots and garlic will enhance the overall flavor of the dish significantly.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to match your preference.
• Don’t strain the beans: Keeping the liquid from the canned butter beans is crucial for achieving that creamy consistency.
• Experiment with herbs: Try adding different herbs like parsley or thyme to customize the flavor profile according to your taste.
• Serve hot: Enjoying the dish warm enhances its creaminess, making every bite delicious.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Butter Beans

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Butter Beans can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options you might consider serving alongside this delectable dish.

1. Garlic Bread
   A crusty garlic bread complements the creamy beans perfectly and adds an aromatic touch.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil and spices make for a colorful and nutritious side that balances well with the rich flavors of butter beans.

3. Simple Salad
   A mixed green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and cuts through the richness of the butter beans.

4. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli provides crunch and color while also being healthy, making it an excellent accompaniment.

5. Couscous Salad
   Fluffy couscous tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs adds texture and pairs beautifully with creamy dishes.

6. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice offer a unique presentation while complementing the flavors of butter beans nicely.

7. Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch, creating an enjoyable contrast with buttery textures.

8. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Grilled corn is sweet and smoky, providing a delightful contrast to the savory notes of Marry Me Butter Beans.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Butter Beans, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not using enough seasoning: Failing to season properly can lead to bland beans. Make sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper as you go.
• Straining the beans: This is a crucial mistake! The liquid from the canned butter beans adds creaminess. Always include it in your dish for the best texture.
• Overcooking garlic: Garlic can burn easily, leading to bitterness. Sauté just until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes, before adding other ingredients.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh basil enhances flavor significantly. Don’t skip it; add it right at the end for the best impact.
• Using low-quality sun-dried tomatoes: Choose high-quality marinated sun-dried tomatoes for depth of flavor. They make a big difference in this dish.
• Ignoring prep work: Taking time to finely dice shallots and chop tomatoes ensures even cooking. Do your prep ahead of time for smoother cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Marry Me Butter Beans

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Marry Me Butter Beans can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Marry Me Butter Beans

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring halfway through until heated through (about 2-3 minutes).
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pan, stirring occasionally until heated (about 5-7 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Marry Me Butter Beans that you might find helpful.

Can I customize my Marry Me Butter Beans?

Yes! You can add different vegetables or spices based on your preferences. Try adding spinach or kale for extra nutrition.

What can I serve with Marry Me Butter Beans?

These beans pair well with toasted bread, over rice, or as a side dish with grilled chicken or vegetables.

How do I make Marry Me Butter Beans spicier?

To add more heat, increase the chili flakes or add fresh chopped chili peppers when sautéing the garlic and shallots.

Are Marry Me Butter Beans suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! They store well and reheat beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Butter Beans are a deliciously creamy dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. Perfect as a main course or side dish, they can be customized with various herbs and vegetables. Give this recipe a try; you’re sure to love it!