Tomato Basil Butter Beans

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it is easy to prepare with everyday ingredients and comes together in about half an hour. I enjoy how the creamy butter beans soak up the rich tomato sauce, while the fresh basil adds a bright and aromatic finish. It is naturally vegetarian, budget-friendly, and perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed family dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups canned diced tomatoes
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) butter beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

1. I heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. I add the onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent.
3. I stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. I add the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
5. I let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. I stir in the butter beans and cook for another 8 to 10 minutes so they become heated through and absorb the flavors.
7. I fold in the fresh basil just before serving.
8. I sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top if I want an extra savory finish, then I serve the dish warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• I add fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for extra greens.
• I stir in cooked Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
• I use cherry tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes when they are in season.
• I finish the dish with fresh mozzarella for a creamy twist.
• I add mushrooms or zucchini for more vegetables.

Storage/Reheating

I store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, I freeze individual portions for up to 3 months and thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. I warm the butter beans gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until they are heated through. If the sauce becomes too thick, I stir in a splash of vegetable broth or water.

FAQs

Can I use dried butter beans instead of canned?

I can, but I cook and drain them first before adding them to the tomato sauce.

What can I serve with Tomato Basil Butter Beans?

I enjoy serving them with crusty bread, rice, pasta, quinoa, or a simple green salad.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes. I simply leave out the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Can I use fresh tomatoes?

Yes. I chop ripe fresh tomatoes and simmer them a little longer until they break down into a rich sauce.

Are butter beans the same as lima beans?

Yes. Butter beans are the mature form of lima beans and have a creamy texture that works beautifully in this recipe.

Conclusion

I enjoy making Tomato Basil Butter Beans because they are simple, comforting, and full of fresh Mediterranean-inspired flavors. The creamy beans, rich tomato sauce, and fragrant basil create a satisfying meal that is perfect for any day of the week. Whether I serve it as a main course or a hearty side dish, it is always a recipe I am happy to make again.

Tomato Basil Butter Beans

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Tomato Basil Butter Beans is a simple, comforting dish featuring creamy butter beans simmered in a rich tomato sauce with garlic, herbs, and fresh basil. It’s an easy, wholesome meal that’s perfect with crusty bread, rice, or pasta.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups canned diced tomatoes
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) butter beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
5. Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Stir in the butter beans and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until heated through and coated in the sauce.
7. Fold in the chopped fresh basil just before serving.
8. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired and serve warm.

Notes

• Add fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for extra greens.
• Stir in cooked Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
• Use fresh cherry tomatoes in place of canned tomatoes when in season.
• Top with fresh mozzarella for a creamy variation.
• Add mushrooms or zucchini for additional vegetables.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently with a splash of vegetable broth or water if needed.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 310 kcal
• Sugar: 7 g
• Sodium: 610 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 11 g
• Protein: 14 g
• Cholesterol: 3 mg