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Tuscan Butter Beans with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

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This Tuscan Butter Beans with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes dish is a creamy, flavorful recipe that combines butter beans, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes in a rich sauce. It’s quick to make, ready in under 30 minutes, and perfect as a main course or side dish. With a balance of creamy textures, herb-infused flavors, and zesty tang from the sun-dried tomatoes, this dish is a must-try for anyone craving a comforting, Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon oil from sun-dried tomatoes jar
  • 1 shallot, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 45 sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (or sun-blushed tomatoes)
  • 400g (14 oz) butter beans, drained (cannellini beans work as a substitute)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 250ml (1 cup) vegetable stock
  • 4 basil leaves, sliced (or ½ teaspoon dried basil)
  • 125ml (½ cup) single (light) cream
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 30g (1 cup) fresh spinach
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics:

  1. Heat sun-dried tomato oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped shallot and sauté for 2 minutes until softened.
  3. Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for an additional 30 seconds.

2. Add Beans and Seasonings:

  1. Stir in the drained butter beans, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.

3. Deglaze and Simmer:

  1. Pour in apple cider vinegar, allowing it to reduce for a few seconds.
  2. Add vegetable stock and sliced basil, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.

4. Incorporate Cream and Cheese:

  1. Stir in light cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.

5. Add Spinach:

  1. Fold in the fresh spinach, cooking until it wilts.

6. Adjust Seasoning and Serve:

  1. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Vegan Option: Use plant-based cream and omit Parmesan, or opt for a vegan cheese alternative.
  • Spice It Up: Add chopped chili (like scotch bonnet) for a spicy kick.
  • Herbal Twist: Incorporate fresh parsley or thyme for added aroma.
  • Richness: Use heavy cream for a richer sauce or add more Parmesan for extra flavor.