Spicy Tomato Butter Beans

Description: These Spicy Tomato Butter Beans are a delicious, creamy one-pan meal made with tender butter beans simmered in a rich tomato sauce, garlic, shallots, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy milk. This comforting recipe is packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or oil from sun-dried tomatoes)

• 2 small shallots, thinly sliced

• 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 2 teaspoons Aleppo pepper (optional)

• 1 cup arrabbiata tomato sauce

• 1 cup creamy plant-based milk or regular milk

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, roughly chopped

• 2 cans butter beans (14 oz each), drained and rinsed

• Zest of 1 lemon

• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• Fresh lemon juice

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add sliced shallots and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

2. Add Tomato Paste: Stir in tomato paste and Aleppo pepper. Cook for about 1 minute to develop the flavor.

3. Prepare the Sauce: Add arrabbiata sauce, creamy milk, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, butter beans, and lemon zest.

4. Season: Stir everything together and add salt to taste. Add a splash of water if you prefer a thinner sauce.

5. Simmer: Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and cook for 5–6 minutes until the beans are heated through and the sauce becomes creamy.

6. Finish with Lemon: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and stir gently.

7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top and serve warm.

Healthy Benefits

• Butter Beans: Rich in plant-based protein and dietary fiber.

• Tomatoes: Provide antioxidants and vitamin C.

• Garlic: Adds flavor and beneficial plant compounds.

• Olive Oil: Contains heart-healthy fats.

• Lemon: Adds freshness and vitamin C.

Pro Tips

• Use the oil from sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

• Add salt gradually because tomato sauce and sun-dried tomatoes already contain salt.

• Simmer gently to keep the beans whole.

• Add extra milk or water if the sauce becomes too thick.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with toasted sourdough bread.

• Enjoy over steamed rice.

• Pair with a fresh Mediterranean salad.

• Serve with warm pita bread.

Variations

• Extra Spicy: Add red pepper flakes.

• Vegan: Use creamy plant-based milk.

• Extra Protein: Add chickpeas or spinach.

• Creamier: Add a little extra plant milk.

• Cheesy: Finish with grated Parmesan if desired.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water.

Final Thought

These Spicy Tomato Butter Beans are creamy, hearty, and full of delicious tomato and garlic flavor. A simple one-pan meal that everyone will love.