Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Butter Beans You’ll Love

Craving a restaurant-quality, comforting meal that’s quick and vegan-friendly? This creamy sun dried tomato butter beans recipe is your new go-to.

Bursting with flavor and rich in plant-based protein, it blends the silkiness of cashew cream with the tang of sun dried tomatoes and fragrant Italian herbs. In just 20 minutes, you can have a bowl of cozy, creamy beans perfect for dipping crusty bread or spooning over grains.

Let’s dive into why this recipe will quickly become a favorite and how to make it effortlessly at home.

Why you’ll fall in love with this butter beans recipe

This recipe is a plant-based spin on the indulgent “Marry Me Chicken,” swapping meat for creamy canned butter beans and a dreamy cashew sauce. It strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and healthy eating, offering a hearty dose of fiber and protein from the beans and cashews—which, according to Healthline, are packed with essential nutrients—without any heavy oils.

Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce, and you’ve got an incredibly comforting meal that feels like a true trattoria delight in your own kitchen.

Ingredient notes and smart substitutions

To keep this recipe accessible and adaptable, here are some ingredient insights:

• Butter beans: Also known as lima beans; canned works great for convenience. If unavailable, cannellini, great northern, navy beans, or even chickpeas can easily substitute and maintain creaminess.
• Cashews: These provide the creamy base when soaked and blended. If nuts aren’t an option, try raw sunflower seeds or a full-fat coconut milk can instead (reduce added water to maintain sauce consistency).
• Sun dried tomatoes: Offer a tangy depth and rich color. Use oil-packed or dry sun dried tomatoes; rehydrate dry ones before blending.
• Fresh basil and Italian herbs: These elevate the sauce with aromatic freshness and balance out the creamy and tangy flavors.

By understanding these swaps, you can tailor the recipe to your pantry and dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or texture.

How to make this vegan butter beans recipe

Making this creamy butter beans dish is simple and straightforward. Follow these clear steps to get restaurant-quality results at home:

Step 1: Soak the Cashews

Bring 2-3 cups of water to a boil. Pour the hot water over the cashews and soak them for at least 5 minutes, or up to an hour if you have time. This softens them for blending a smooth, creamy sauce, a crucial step recommended by experts at The Kitchn for achieving the best texture.

Step 2: Blend the Sauce

Drain the cashews and add them to a high-powered blender along with garlic, sun dried tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, lemon juice, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and water. Blend on high until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and vibrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Beans and Sauce

Pour the blended sauce into a large skillet. Add the drained and rinsed butter beans. Heat over medium and simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring often to marry the flavors. Adjust thickness by adding a splash more water if needed.

Step 4: Stir in Spinach and Garnish

Add sliced baby spinach and toss until wilted and bright green. Add more sun dried tomatoes if desired for extra tang and texture. Taste and adjust salt or pepper, then remove from heat. Serve this creamy, comforting Tuscan-inspired dish with your favorite crusty bread and enjoy!

Serving suggestions to elevate your meal

These creamy sun dried tomato butter beans are versatile and hearty enough to eat on their own, scooped up with fresh crusty bread like a fragrant sliced baguette or some easy vegan cheddar bay biscuits. To stretch the meal or add variety, spoon over cooked pasta, brown or white rice, or your favorite whole grains like quinoa or farro.

A side salad such as a crisp Kale Caesar adds refreshing texture and nutrients, rounding out the plate beautifully. Finish your meal with a luscious dessert like these easy one-bowl vegan chocolate muffins for the perfect balance of flavors and indulgence.

This recipe effortlessly fits into a satisfying, well-rounded plant-based meal plan.

Expert tips from Nora for the best results

• For the smoothest sauce, soak cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes to ensure perfect creaminess.
• Taste and adjust seasonings after simmering; adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens the flavors.
• Use a high-powered blender to avoid gritty texture. If yours isn’t strong, blend longer and strain if needed.
• Make extras! This dish stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days or freezes beautifully up to a month, making it a great meal prep option.

These tips will help you create a consistent and crave-worthy dish every time.

Frequently asked questions about butter beans

Are butter beans the same as lima beans?

Yes! Butter beans are simply another name for lima beans, especially commonly used in canned form in different regions.

Can I use dry butter beans instead of canned?

Absolutely. Soak 1.5 cups of dried butter beans overnight and cook in boiling water until tender before using.

What if I can’t find butter beans?

You can substitute other creamy white beans like cannellini, great northern, navy beans, or even chickpeas with great results.

What can I use instead of cashews?

Raw sunflower seeds or slivered blanched almonds can replace cashews for the cream base. For a nut-free option, try full-fat coconut milk (use less added water).

How do I store leftovers?

Transfer cooled butter beans and sauce to an airtight container. Refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How should I serve this dish?

Enjoy on its own with crusty bread, or serve over grains or pasta with a fresh salad to round out the meal.

Conclusion

This creamy sun dried tomato butter beans recipe is a delightful blend of comforting, wholesome, and quick-to-make elements perfect for busy weeknights. Its rich cashew cream and vibrant tomato-herb sauce elevate simple canned beans into a luxurious dish that pairs beautifully with crusty bread or grains.

By understanding ingredient swaps and following the step-by-step guide with expert tips, you’ll create a nourishing, flavorful meal that your whole family will enjoy. Give it a try and transform your canned beans into a comforting Italian-inspired delight!