Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, the kids are doing homework, and I’m staring into the fridge wondering what to make for dinner. That’s when I remembered this easy and delicious recipe for tomato basil butter beans. It’s now become a family favorite! It’s ready in under 30 minutes, packed with flavor, and requires minimal cleanup, which is always a win in my book. If you are looking for an easy and delicious weeknight dinner, tomato basil butter beans is a must-try.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Tomato Basil Butter Beans (Better Than the Rest!)
This recipe is a lifesaver because it’s quick, flavorful, and so simple. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Easy Cleanup: One-pan meal means fewer dishes to wash, much like preparing a batch of quick lemon cheesecake overnight oats.
- Minimal Ingredients: Uses everyday ingredients you probably already have.
- Customizable Flavor: Easily adaptable to your taste preferences.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients and plant-based protein.
Easy & Delicious Tomato Basil Butter Beans
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- To prep, finely dice the shallot, mince the garlic, and cut up the basil. I recommend using a garlic press if you have it.
- Next, add the olive oil to the pan and heat over medium heat. Then, add in the tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
- Stir and cook the tomatoes over medium heat until they burst open, about 5-8 minutes. They should release their juices, but if not, use a spatula to press them down and release the tomato juice.
- Next, add in the diced shallots and minced garlic. Stir and cook with the tomatoes for about 3 minutes.
- Add the can of butter beans including the liquid from the can. This makes the beans really creamy, so do not strain them. Stir together and bring the beans to a simmer. Once simmering, cook for about 5 minutes to reduce some of the liquid and cook the beans.
- Next, add the vegan cream cheese and stir until mixed.
- Then, turn off the heat and add in the chopped basil. Stir the basil into the tomato butter beans and season with additional salt and pepper to your liking.
- Remove the pan from the heat and serve while warm with a big slice of toasted bread. Enjoy!
Notes
Ingredients for Your Tomato Basil Butter Beans
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this tasty dish:
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 10 ounces cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon truffle salt (or regular salt, add more as desired)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (add more as desired)
- 1 medium shallot (finely diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 15 ounce can butter beans (1 can with the liquid added to the pot- do not strain!)
- 2 Tablespoons vegan cream cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil (chopped)
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Let’s dive a little deeper into these ingredients, shall we?
- Truffle Salt: I love using truffle salt for that extra touch of umami, but regular salt works just as well. Adjust the amount to your liking.
- Vegan Cream Cheese: This adds a lovely creaminess, but you can totally omit it or substitute with regular cream cheese if you prefer.
- Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is key for that vibrant flavor. When picking basil, look for bright green leaves without any dark spots. Better yet, try growing your own! It’s super easy, even in a small pot on your windowsill.
- Butter Beans: These beans have a mild, buttery flavor and creamy texture that’s just divine. If you can’t find butter beans, cannellini beans make a great substitute.
How to Make Tomato Basil Butter Beans: Step-by-Step
Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. I promise, it’s easier than it looks.
- To prep, finely dice the shallot, mince the garlic, and cut up the basil. I recommend using a garlic press if you have it.
- Next, add the olive oil to the pan and heat over medium heat. Then, add in the tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
- Stir and cook the tomatoes over medium heat until they burst open, about 5-8 minutes. They should release their juices, but if not, use a spatula to press them down and release the tomato juice.
- Next, add in the diced shallots and minced garlic. Stir and cook with the tomatoes for about 3 minutes.
- Add the can of butter beans including the liquid from the can. This makes the beans really creamy, so do not strain them. Stir together and bring the beans to a simmer. Once simmering, cook for about 5 minutes to reduce some of the liquid and cook the beans.
- Next, add the vegan cream cheese and stir until mixed.
- Then, turn off the heat and add in the chopped basil. Stir the basil into the tomato butter beans and season with additional salt and pepper to your liking.
- Remove the pan from the heat and serve while warm with a big slice of toasted bread. Enjoy!
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even the best of us make mistakes, so let’s tackle some common issues:
- Tomatoes Not Bursting: Make sure your heat is on medium. If they’re still stubborn, gently press them with a spatula to release their juices.
- Sauce Too Thin: Let the sauce simmer a bit longer to reduce the liquid, and it’ll thicken up perfectly.
- Bland Flavor: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper. A little extra can make a big difference. Also, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
Tomato Basil Butter Beans: Variations and Add-Ins
Want to mix things up? Here are some fun variations:
| Variation | Ingredients to Add/Substitute | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Dairy-Free | Omit cream cheese or use dairy-free sour cream | Skip the cream cheese altogether or replace it with a dollop of your favorite dairy-free sour cream for a similar creamy texture. |
| Added Protein | Cooked chicken, sausage, or chickpeas | Add pre-cooked chicken or sausage during the last few minutes of cooking. For chickpeas, toss them in with the butter beans, or try making a hearty chili with lentils and ground beef. |
| Other Herbs | Thyme, oregano, or rosemary | Add a sprig of fresh thyme, oregano, or rosemary along with the garlic and shallots to infuse the dish with extra herbal notes. |
| Using Dried Beans | Dried Butter Beans | Use a pressure cooker to cook the beans until they are soft and tender, then add to recipe. |
Serving Suggestions
These tomato basil butter beans are incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to enjoy them:
- With crusty bread for dipping
- Over pasta or rice
- As a side dish with grilled chicken or fish
And remember, this dish is a great way to get your iron!
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a pan on the stove or in the microwave.
Are Butter Beans Good for You?
Absolutely! Butter beans are packed with nutrients. They’re a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a healthy addition to any diet. Perfect for those looking to boost their iron intake, consider our ultimate high iron smoothie recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried butter beans? If so, how should I prepare them?
Yes, you can! Soak them overnight, then cook until tender before adding them to the recipe.
What other herbs pair well with this recipe?
Thyme, oregano, and rosemary are all fantastic additions.
Can I make this without cream cheese?
Absolutely. The dish will still be delicious, just a bit less creamy.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Chicken, sausage, or chickpeas would be great.
What wine pairings work well with tomato basil butter beans?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc would complement the flavors nicely.
How do you cook canned butter beans?
The recipe already cooks canned butter beans, just add them directly to the sauce.
Conclusion
So there you have it, a super simple and delicious recipe for tomato basil butter beans that’s perfect for any busy weeknight. I hope you’ll give it a try and let me know how it turns out! Leave a comment below if you have any questions or share your results. I can’t wait to hear from you!
