Easy Creamy & Lemony Tomato Butter Beans

Looking for a simple, comforting, and protein-packed meal? This Creamy Tomato Butter Beans recipe is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. With tender butter beans simmered in a velvety tomato-based sauce, enhanced with fresh spinach, tangy lemon, and creamy vegan parmesan, every bite is pure comfort food. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this one-pan dish is a must-try for vegans and non-vegans alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Creamy – A luxurious tomato sauce infused with butter beans and creamy vegan cheese.
• Nutrient-Dense – Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from wholesome plant-based ingredients.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
• One-Pan Wonder – Less cleanup, more enjoyment!
• Versatile & Customizable – Serve with crusty bread, over rice, or enjoy as a hearty soup.

Key Ingredients

Butter Beans - A hearty, protein-packed bean with a creamy texture that absorbs all the delicious flavors of the sauce.

Spinach - Adds freshness and a boost of vitamins and minerals.

Better Than Bouillon - Enhances the depth of flavor with a rich, umami-packed vegetable broth base.

Vegan Parmesan - Brings a savory, cheesy element to the dish without any dairy.

Tomato Paste - Intensifies the rich tomato flavor and creates a thicker, more luscious sauce.

Grape Tomatoes - Provides a burst of natural sweetness and juiciness.

Lemons - Adds brightness and a slight tang that perfectly balances the creamy tomato sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics

• Heat 2 tablespoon olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
• Add 1 small onion, diced, and 3 cloves garlic, minced. Sauté until fragrant and soft.

2. Add Tomatoes & Tomato Paste

• Stir in 1 cup halved grape tomatoes and 2 tablespoon tomato paste.
• Cook until tomatoes soften and the paste darkens in color, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Incorporate Better Than Bouillon

• Add 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon (vegetable base) and stir well.
• Pour in 2 cups water, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze.

4. Add Butter Beans & Simmer

• Stir in 2 cups drained and rinsed butter beans.
• Let everything simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.

5. Stir in Spinach, Vegan Parmesan & Lemons

• Add 2 cups fresh spinach, stirring until wilted.
• Mix in ¼ cup vegan parmesan and the zest of 1 lemon.
• Squeeze in 2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice for brightness.

6. Serve & Enjoy!

• Garnish with more vegan parmesan and fresh basil.
• Serve with crusty bread, over rice, or enjoy as a stew.

Variations & Substitutions

• Make It Spicy – Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Creamier Version – Stir in a splash of coconut milk for extra richness.
• Protein Boost – Add chickpeas or lentils for extra protein.
• No Spinach? – Swap with kale or Swiss chard.
• Lemon Alternative – Use apple cider vinegar for tanginess if you’re out of lemons.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of grape tomatoes?

Yes! Swap grape tomatoes for ½ cup canned diced tomatoes.

2. How do I store leftovers?

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

3. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes! Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

4. What can I serve with this?

Pair with crusty bread, quinoa, rice, or pasta.

5. Can I make it oil-free?

Yes! Sauté onions and garlic in vegetable broth instead of oil.

6. What other beans can I use?

Substitute with cannellini beans, navy beans, or chickpeas.

Top Tip

For maximum flavor, let the sauce simmer for a few extra minutes before adding the spinach and lemon juice. This helps deepen the flavors!

Hint

If you love a thicker sauce, mash some of the butter beans while cooking to naturally thicken it.

Enjoy your Creamy Tomato Butter Beans – a comforting, rich, and satisfying plant-based dish that’s perfect for any meal! 🍽️

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