Description

Craving a quick, healthy dish that’s bursting with Italian-inspired flavors and perfect for a busy weeknight? The Tomato & Garlic Butter Bean Dinner is your answer! This vegetarian recipe combines creamy butter beans, juicy tomatoes, and vibrant spinach in a garlicky, herb-infused sauce, ready in a flash.

Ingredients

To make Tomato & Garlic Butter Bean Dinner for 4 servings, you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds a layer of flavor or texture to this wholesome dish:

Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Used for sautéing, adding a Mediterranean touch.
Garlic Cloves (2, minced): Provides aromatic, savory depth.
No-Salt-Added Petite Diced Tomatoes (2 cans, 14½ oz each, undrained): Form a tangy, juicy base.
Butter Beans (1 can, 16 oz, rinsed and drained): Add creamy texture and protein.
Fresh Baby Spinach (6 cups, about 6 oz): Brings vibrant color and nutrients.
Italian Seasoning (½ tsp): Adds earthy, herbaceous flavor.
Pepper (¼ tsp): Offers a mild kick.
Hot Cooked Pasta (optional, for serving): Makes it a heartier meal.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional, for serving): Adds nutty, savory depth.

Substitutions and Variations:

Butter Beans: Swap with cannellini beans, great northern beans, or chickpeas.
Diced Tomatoes: Use regular diced tomatoes, fresh diced tomatoes (about 4 cups), or crushed tomatoes.
Spinach: Replace with kale, Swiss chard, or arugula (adjust cooking time for tougher greens).
Italian Seasoning: Substitute with a mix of dried oregano, basil, or thyme.
Add-Ons: Include sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for extra veggies.
Vegan: Skip Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.
Gluten-Free: Serve with gluten-free pasta or skip pasta entirely (check canned ingredient labels).

Why These Ingredients Matter: The butter beans provide plant-based protein and fiber, while the tomatoes and spinach add vitamins and vibrant color. The garlic and Italian seasoning create a savory, Mediterranean flair, making this a balanced, nutrient-rich meal perfect for vegetarian diets.

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Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook, stirring, for 30–45 seconds until tender and fragrant.

Tip: Stir constantly to prevent the garlic from burning, which can add a bitter taste.

Step 2: Cook the Main Ingredients

Add 2 cans (14½ oz each) undrained no-salt-added petite diced tomatoes, 1 can (16 oz) rinsed and drained butter beans, 6 cups fresh baby spinach, ½ tsp Italian seasoning, and ¼ tsp pepper to the skillet.
Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted and the mixture is heated through.

Tip: Add spinach in batches if needed, stirring until it wilts to fit in the skillet; stir gently to keep beans intact.

Step 3: Serve

If desired, cook pasta (such as penne or spaghetti) according to package directions.
Spoon the butter bean mixture into bowls or over hot cooked pasta.
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if using, and serve immediately.

Tip: Serve hot to enjoy the vibrant flavors and tender veggies at their best; taste and adjust seasoning if needed.