Description
A creamy, comforting one-pot dish featuring tender butter beans simmered with aromatic spices, tomato, and greens. Enriched with a touch of cream and optional melted mozzarella, this Mary Me Butter Beans recipe is perfect for a quick, flavorful vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cans (15 oz each) butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1/3 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
- 2 cups baby spinach or chopped kale
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or plant-based cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add finely diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add spices: Add red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Cook the spices for 1 minute, stirring to release their flavors.
- Develop tomato base: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Add diced tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
- Simmer beans: Add drained butter beans and vegetable broth. Simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld.
- Add cream and greens: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream along with baby spinach or chopped kale. Cook until the greens are wilted and the dish is creamy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Melt cheese (optional): If using mozzarella or plant-based cheese, sprinkle on top, cover the pot, and let it melt for 2–3 minutes.
- Finish and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot immediately.
Notes
- Use coconut cream for a dairy-free, vegan option.
- Butter beans can be substituted with cannellini beans or lima beans if preferred.
- The dish pairs well with crusty bread or over steamed rice for a heartier meal.
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on desired spice level.
- Use fresh herbs for garnish to add brightness and color.
