Marry Me Butter Beans

Marry Me Butter Beans are a delightful vegan dish that combines rich, creamy flavors with the hearty texture of butter beans. This recipe is perfect for dinner parties or cozy nights in, making it a versatile option for any occasion. With sun-dried tomatoes and a blend of herbs, these butter beans bring a taste of Italy right to your table. They are not only easy to make but also fulfilling and nutritious, making them a favorite among plant-based eaters.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and herbs creates an irresistible savory experience.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber from butter beans, it’s both satisfying and healthy.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side with your favorite bread or salad.
• Vegan and Gluten-Free: Suitable for various dietary preferences, making it inclusive for all guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Marry Me Butter Beans, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Garlic press (optional)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for sautéing ingredients and simmering the beans together.
• Garlic press: Makes mincing garlic easier and ensures even flavor distribution.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Essential for precise cuts on shallots and sun-dried tomatoes.

Ingredients

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

• 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

To prep, finely dice the shallots, chop the sun-dried tomatoes, and mince the garlic. I recommend using a garlic press if you have it.

Step 2: Melt Vegan Butter

Next, add the vegan butter to a large pot and melt over medium heat.

Step 3: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add in the shallots and garlic. Stir together and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spices

Next, add in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried thyme, and chili flakes. Stir and sauté with the shallots and garlic for another minute until well combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Butter Beans

Add the can of butter beans to the pan including the liquid from the can. This makes the beans really creamy—do not strain them! Then add in the coconut cream, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice.

Step 6: Simmer Together

Stir together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, cook for about 5 minutes to reduce some of the liquid while cooking the beans through.

Step 7: Finish with Fresh Basil

Once the sauce has thickened, add in fresh basil and season with salt & pepper to your liking.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Serve while warm with a big slice of toasted bread. Enjoy!

How to Serve Marry Me Butter Beans

Marry Me Butter Beans are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

On Toast

• Serve the creamy butter beans on top of toasted sourdough or whole-grain bread for a hearty breakfast or brunch option.

With Salad

• Pair with a fresh salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette for a light yet filling meal.

As a Dip

• Use Marry Me Butter Beans as a dip alongside crunchy veggies or pita chips for a tasty appetizer at your next gathering.

In Tacos

• Scoop the butter beans into corn tortillas and top with avocado and salsa for a fun twist on taco night.

Over Rice

• Serve the beans over fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal that’s packed with nutrients.

How to Perfect Marry Me Butter Beans

To make your Marry Me Butter Beans even more delightful, consider these simple tips.

• Choose quality ingredients: Fresh shallots and garlic will enhance the overall flavor of the dish, making it richer and more aromatic.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook! Feel free to add extra spices or herbs to suit your personal preference.
• Experiment with textures: For added crunch, toss in some toasted nuts or seeds just before serving.
• Mix in greens: Stir in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Make it creamy: If you prefer an even creamier texture, blend half of the butter beans before adding them back into the pot.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Butter Beans

Marry Me Butter Beans pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement this dish:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up those delicious butter beans.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and flavor, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.
3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumber and lemon adds brightness to your plate.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Tender steamed broccoli provides a nutritious contrast to the creaminess of the beans.
5. Couscous with Herbs: Fluffy couscous seasoned with fresh herbs is an excellent base that absorbs flavors beautifully.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds a smoky touch that pairs well with the rich beans.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the shallots: Failing to include shallots can result in a bland flavor. Always finely dice them for a tasty base.
• Not using the bean liquid: Straining the beans removes the creaminess. Keep the liquid for a richer texture in your dish.
• Overcooking the garlic: Garlic can turn bitter if overcooked. Sauté it just until fragrant to enhance the flavor without bitterness.
• Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to a dull taste. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds brightness but is often overlooked. Stir it in just before serving for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Marry Me Butter Beans

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Consider portioning into smaller containers for easy meal prep.

Reheating Marry Me Butter Beans

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring frequently until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Marry Me Butter Beans.

What are Marry Me Butter Beans?

Marry Me Butter Beans are rich and creamy butter beans cooked with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs, perfect for a satisfying meal.

Can I customize Marry Me Butter Beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences.

How do I make Marry Me Butter Beans gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat ingredients. Just ensure all your components are labeled gluten-free.

What can I serve with Marry Me Butter Beans?

These beans pair well with toasted bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Are there any alternatives for nutritional yeast?

If you prefer not to use nutritional yeast, try using vegan cheese shreds or omit it entirely for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Butter Beans offer a deliciously creamy and flavorful dish that is both vegan and gluten-free. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various herbs and vegetables, making it a fantastic choice for any meal. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its rich flavors!