Marry Me White Beans
The vegetarian cousin of the viral chicken dish. Creamy beans in a sun-dried tomato and parmesan sauce.
Details
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz) cannellini or butter beans, drained
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or cashew cream
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp oregano
- Spinach (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Sauté garlic in butter and oil for 1 minute.
- 2
Add broth, cream, tomatoes, and oregano. Simmer 5 minutes.
- 3
Stir in beans and heat through.
- 4
Add cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- 5
Stir in spinach until wilted.
- 6
Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
About This Recipe
Transforming the beloved 'Marry Me Chicken' concept into a vibrant, plant-forward masterpiece, these Marry Me White Beans are a testament to Italian-American ingenuity in the kitchen. This dish ingeniously swaps out poultry for hearty cannellini or butter beans, creating a satisfying, protein-rich meal that doesn't compromise on the signature creamy, umami-packed sauce. Its allure lies in the harmonious blend of sun-dried tomatoes and rich Parmesan, a classic Italian pairing that forms the backbone of its deeply savory flavor profile. Key techniques include building a fragrant base by gently sautéing minced garlic with the sun-dried tomatoes, allowing their flavors to meld before the creamy liquid is introduced. Whether you opt for decadent heavy cream or a luscious cashew cream for a dairy-free rendition, the goal is a velvety smooth sauce that perfectly coats each tender bean. This recipe shines as a quick weeknight supper but also elevates to a comforting weekend main, perhaps with a generous swirl of fresh spinach wilted in at the end for a pop of color and added nutrients. Serve it simply with crusty bread for soaking up every last bit of sauce, or as a luxurious side alongside roasted vegetables or grilled polenta for a more complete spread.
Tips & Tricks
- • To achieve an extra-creamy texture without adding more dairy, mash about a quarter of the drained beans against the side of the pot with a wooden spoon before adding the liquid. This releases their starch, naturally thickening the sauce.
- • For a delightful textural contrast and a hint of spice, consider stirring in a tablespoon of Calabrian chili paste or a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
- • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce and restore its creaminess, as it tends to thicken significantly upon cooling.
- • Elevate this dish into a more substantial meal by serving it over short pasta like orecchiette or rigatoni, allowing the sauce to cling beautifully to the noodles, or spoon it onto thick slices of toasted sourdough bruschetta.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (approximate)