Marry Me White Beans

There’s something undeniably romantic about a dish that can whisk you away to a sun-drenched terrace in Tuscany with just one bite. Enter Marry Me White Beans, a creamy, dreamy, and utterly delicious dish that combines the heartiness of white beans with the rich flavors of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a heart-stealer—perfect for a cozy dinner date or a comforting weeknight meal.

Imagine sitting at your dinner table, a warm loaf of crusty bread on the side, ready for dipping into this luscious concoction. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to savor every bite and perhaps, just perhaps, make someone fall in love with you all over again.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Marry Me White Beans is a dish that deserves a spotlight on your dinner table for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The versatility of white beans allows for a variety of flavor pairings, and when combined with the right ingredients, they create a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

Furthermore, this recipe is packed with nutrients, thanks to the addition of spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, making it as wholesome as it is delicious. And let’s not forget the creaminess from the heavy cream, which gives a luxurious touch to the dish without overwhelming it. Whether served as a main course or a delightful side, Marry Me White Beans will undoubtedly win hearts and taste buds alike.

What You’ll Gather

To recreate this charming dish, here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 medium onion, minced
• 1 tablespoon oil (olive oil works beautifully)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust based on heat preference)
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1 (15 oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
• 1/2 cup spinach (fresh is best)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, plus more as needed
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Bread for dipping (a crusty sourdough or baguette is perfect)

Equipment & Tools

Before we dive into the cooking, let’s make sure you have everything you need:

• Large skillet: This will be your primary cooking vessel.
• Wooden spoon: For stirring and mixing the ingredients.
• Measuring spoons: To ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.
• Knife and cutting board: For chopping your onion, garlic, and basil.
• Can opener: To easily open that can of white beans.

Marry Me White Beans Made Stepwise

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics

Start by heating your oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Next, toss in the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to release its lovely aroma.

Step 2: Add the Tomato Paste and Spices

Stir in the tomato paste, salt, oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook this mixture for another minute, letting the spices bloom and develop their flavors. This step is where the dish starts to come alive!

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

Once your spices are fragrant, pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Incorporate the Beans and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Add the drained and rinsed white beans along with the sliced sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the beans are well-coated in the flavorful mixture.

Step 5: Introduce the Spinach and Cream

Next, fold in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt slightly before adding the heavy cream. Stir everything together until the spinach is fully incorporated and the cream has transformed the dish into a luscious sauce. If you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to add more cream to taste.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Basil

Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil. This final touch adds a burst of freshness that beautifully complements the richness of the dish.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the Marry Me White Beans into bowls and serve warm with crusty bread for dipping. Trust us, you’ll want to savor every bite!

If You’re Out Of…

You may find yourself in a pinch, but no worries! Here’s what you can substitute:

• Onion: Shallots or leeks can work in a pinch.
• Vegetable broth: Chicken broth or water can be used, though broth enhances flavor.
• Heavy cream: Coconut cream or cashew cream can provide a dairy-free alternative.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes can be chopped and used, though the flavor will differ slightly.

Insider Tips

• For an added layer of flavor, consider roasting your garlic before adding it to the dish.
• Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking; the flavors will deepen as it cools slightly.
• If you enjoy a bit of heat, add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when serving.
• This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

Marry Me White Beans is perfect for leftovers! Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up if needed. This dish can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

Reader Questions

Can I make Marry Me White Beans vegan?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and you’ll have a delicious vegan version of this dish.

What type of bread pairs best with this dish?

Crusty sourdough or a fresh baguette is ideal for dipping into the creamy sauce. You could also use pita bread or ciabatta.

Can I freeze Marry Me White Beans?

Yes! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How can I enhance the flavor even more?

Consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Quick Weeknight Wins

If you enjoyed Marry Me White Beans and are looking for more quick and delightful meals, check out these options:

• Easy One-Pot Pasta
• Vegetable Stir-Fry
• 15-Minute Chickpea Salad
• Quick Chicken Fajitas

Let’s Eat

With its rich flavors and comforting ingredients, Marry Me White Beans is sure to become a favorite in your household. Ready to impress your family or a special someone? Whip up this dish, and you might just find yourself swept off your feet. Enjoy every creamy, delicious bite, and prepare for the compliments to roll in!