Ingredients
For the Butter Beans and Tomato Mixture
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups butter beans (about 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
For Serving
- 1/4 cup vegan pesto (or fresh chopped basil)
- Crusty bread or baguette slices, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Warm Garlic: In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and gently warm them, allowing the garlic to infuse the oil while you prepare the next ingredients.
- Add Tomatoes: Add 2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and increase the heat to medium. Cook until the tomatoes start to wrinkle and release their juices, creating a flavorful base.
- Prepare Butter Beans: Drain and rinse 2 cans of butter beans thoroughly. Once the tomatoes have softened, add the butter beans to the skillet, stirring to combine them with the tomato mixture.
- Simmer: Let the butter beans and tomatoes simmer together for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to break down slightly without becoming mushy.
- Add Pesto or Basil: Drizzle 1/4 cup of vegan pesto over the top or sprinkle with fresh chopped basil leaves. Stir gently to incorporate the fresh herb flavor.
- Serve: Serve the tomato basil butter beans warm. For an added touch, slice a baguette, brush with olive oil, and toast under a broiler for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Pair the dish with the toasted bread, or enjoy it as you would bruschetta or as a topping for pasta, rice, or quinoa.
Notes
- You can use fresh basil instead of vegan pesto if preferred.
- For added texture, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts on top before serving.
- This dish serves well as a light meal or a side dish in larger meals.
- Make sure not to overcook the tomatoes to prevent them from turning mushy.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
