Description
A creamy and flavorful tomato basil butter beans recipe that combines juicy burst cherry tomatoes, aromatic shallots, garlic, and fresh basil with tender butter beans, all cooked in olive oil and finished with vegan cream cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a quick, hearty, and vegan-friendly meal served warm with toasted bread.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Herbs
- 10 ounces cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 medium shallot, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
Pantry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon truffle salt (or regular salt, add more as desired)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (add more as desired)
- 15 ounce can butter beans (include liquid, do not strain)
- 2 tablespoons vegan cream cheese
Instructions
- Prep aromatics: Finely dice the shallot, mince the garlic, and chop the fresh basil. Using a garlic press is recommended to quickly mince the garlic for optimal flavor release.
- Heat oil and tomatoes: Add the olive oil to a pan and heat over medium heat. Then add the cherry or grape tomatoes along with salt and black pepper to season.
- Cook tomatoes until burst: Stir and cook the tomatoes over medium heat for 5-8 minutes until they burst open and release their juices. If needed, press them down gently with a spatula to help release the juices.
- Add shallots and garlic: Stir in the diced shallots and minced garlic, cooking together with the tomatoes for about 3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Add butter beans with liquid: Pour in the can of butter beans including the liquid to retain creaminess. Stir and bring to a simmer, then cook for approximately 5 minutes to reduce some liquid and blend flavors.
- Incorporate vegan cream cheese: Add the vegan cream cheese to the pot and stir until it is fully mixed in, creating a creamy texture.
- Finish with basil and seasoning: Turn off heat, then stir in the chopped fresh basil. Adjust seasoning by adding more salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm: Remove the pan from heat and serve the tomato basil butter beans warm, ideally with a big slice of toasted bread for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Notes
- Do not strain the butter beans liquid; it adds creaminess to the dish.
- Using truffle salt adds a subtle earthy flavor, but regular salt works well too.
- Adjust seasoning at the end to suit your taste.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
- Great for a quick vegan meal or side dish.
