Creamy Tuscan Butter Bean Skillet
A quick and deeply satisfying one-pan meal featuring tender butter beans simmered in a rich, creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh spinach, ready in just 25 minutes.
For 4 servings
Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the rinsed and drained butter beans, vegetable broth, and dried oregano to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
Using the back of a spoon or a potato masher, gently mash about one-quarter to one-third of the beans directly in the skillet. This will release their starches and create a naturally creamy texture for the sauce.
Stir in the fresh spinach a handful at a time, allowing it to wilt down completely before adding more. Once all spinach is wilted, stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk, if using) for extra richness.
Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed.
Serve hot, optionally garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, alongside crusty bread or over pasta for a complete meal.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use good quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, as they tend to be more tender and flavorful than dry-packed ones.
- 2Don't over-mash the beans; you want some whole beans remaining for texture and substance in the dish.
- 3Adjust the amount of vegetable broth to achieve your desired sauce consistency. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a splash more broth.
- 4For a deeper, more complex flavor, consider using a homemade vegetable broth instead of store-bought.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or crumbled Italian sausage (plant-based or regular) during the last few minutes of simmering for a heartier meal.
Greens SwapGreens Swap
Substitute kale or Swiss chard for spinach. If using heartier greens, add them earlier in the cooking process (after the beans and broth) to allow more time to soften.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for a subtle but pleasant heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Butter beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Plant-Based Protein
This dish provides a substantial amount of plant-based protein from the butter beans, making it a satisfying and nutritious vegetarian or vegan meal option.
Antioxidant-Rich
Sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach contribute a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting overall health and immune function.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can! Soak and cook dried butter beans according to package directions until tender before adding them to the skillet. You'll need about 1 cup of dried beans to yield approximately 3 cups cooked.
