Marry Me Butter Beans

Marry Me Butter Beans are a delightful combination of rich, creamy flavors and hearty textures. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a comforting side at gatherings. With sun-dried tomatoes and a touch of coconut cream, these butter beans are not only delicious but also vegan and gluten-free. You’ll find them to be satisfying and versatile, making them an excellent choice for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and spices creates a rich taste that will impress anyone.
• Nutritious: Packed with fiber and protein, butter beans are a healthy addition to your meals.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as a main course or pair with toasted bread for a delightful appetizer.
• Vegan & Gluten-Free: This dish accommodates diverse dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Marry Me Butter Beans easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the beans and combining all ingredients evenly.
• Garlic press: Makes mincing garlic effortless, enhancing the dish’s flavor quickly.
• Chopping board & Knife: Necessary for preparing vegetables like shallots and sun-dried tomatoes efficiently.

Ingredients

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

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

To start, finely dice the shallots, chop the sun-dried tomatoes, and mince the garlic. Using a garlic press can speed up this process if you have one.

Step 2: Melt the Vegan Butter

Add the vegan butter to a large pot over medium heat. Allow it to melt until it starts sizzling.

Step 3: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

Once melted, 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

Incorporate the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried thyme, and chili flakes into the pot. Stir well and sauté for another minute until everything is combined nicely.

Step 5: Mix in Butter Beans

Pour in the canned butter beans along with their liquid—this is crucial for achieving that creamy texture! Add in coconut cream, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice.

Step 6: Bring to Simmer

Stir everything together well. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for about 5 minutes so that some of the liquid reduces while cooking the beans.

Step 7: Finish with Basil

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

Step 8: Serve Warm

Serve your Marry Me Butter Beans warm with slices of toasted bread. Enjoy this comforting dish!

How to Serve Marry Me Butter Beans

Marry Me Butter Beans are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Their rich and creamy texture, combined with the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and herbs, makes them versatile for any meal.

With Toasted Bread

• Enjoy the butter beans on a slice of crusty toasted bread. The crunchy texture complements the creaminess perfectly.

As a Pasta Sauce

• Toss the Marry Me Butter Beans with your favorite pasta. The sauce will cling beautifully to the noodles, creating a comforting meal.

On a Salad

• Serve the butter beans over a fresh green salad. This adds protein and richness to your veggies while keeping it light.

In a Wrap

• Use the butter beans as a filling in wraps or pita bread. Add some crunchy vegetables for a satisfying lunch option.

How to Perfect Marry Me Butter Beans

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Marry Me Butter Beans, consider these tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shallots and garlic enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go; feel free to add more herbs or spices according to your preference.
• Control creaminess: For creamier beans, use more coconut cream or include some vegetable broth during cooking.
• Add protein: Include cooked chicken or turkey for an added protein boost if desired.
• Experiment with herbs: Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Butter Beans

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Butter Beans can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options to try.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread is perfect for scooping up those creamy butter beans.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil brings color and nutrition to your table.

3. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and pairs well with the richness of the beans.

4. Grilled Asparagus
   Simple grilled asparagus drizzled with balsamic glaze offers a nice contrast to the creamy texture.

5. Cucumber Raita
   This cool yogurt dip balances out the warm spices in the dish and adds a refreshing touch.

6. Steamed Broccoli
   Bright green steamed broccoli not only adds vitamins but also complements the flavors beautifully.

7. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and fiber, enhancing the meal’s nutrition profile.

8. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled or boiled corn on the cob makes for a deliciously sweet side that contrasts nicely with savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Butter Beans, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping prep work: Failing to chop the shallots and sun-dried tomatoes beforehand can lead to uneven cooking. Always prep ingredients first for a smoother cooking process.
• Straining the beans: Removing the liquid from canned butter beans will make the dish less creamy. Always include the liquid for optimal texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can dull the flavors of your dish. Make sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Overcooking garlic: Garlic can turn bitter if sautéed for too long. Add it in with shallots and cook just until fragrant.
• Not letting it simmer: Skipping the simmering step can result in a watery sauce. Allow time for the sauce to thicken properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Marry Me Butter Beans

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Marry Me Butter Beans

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm throughout, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Marry Me Butter Beans:

What makes Marry Me Butter Beans special?

Marry Me Butter Beans are creamy and flavorful, offering a delicious plant-based alternative that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Can I customize Marry Me Butter Beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or kale or swap in different herbs according to your taste preferences.

How do I serve Marry Me Butter Beans?

These beans pair wonderfully with toasted bread or serve as a side dish alongside grains or salads for a complete meal.

Are Marry Me Butter Beans gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is gluten-free, making it suitable for those avoiding gluten.

How long does it take to prepare Marry Me Butter Beans?

The total time is around 30 minutes, with only 10 minutes of prep time required before cooking.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Butter Beans are not only rich and creamy but also versatile enough for any vegetarian lunch or dinner. Customize them with your favorite spices or veggies to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why it’s such a beloved dish!