Imagine a dish that transports you to sun-drenched Mediterranean coastlines with just one bite - our Butter Beans with Mint and Tomatoes is exactly that culinary escape! This vibrant, effortless recipe combines creamy butter beans, juicy cherry tomatoes, and aromatic fresh mint to create a side dish that's not just a meal, but a flavor adventure. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply elevate your weeknight cooking, this recipe promises to be your new go-to Mediterranean-inspired sensation.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups butter beans, cooked
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Drain the cooked butter beans and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
- Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes, ensuring they are cut into uniform bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
- Rinse the fresh mint leaves thoroughly and chop them finely, releasing their aromatic oils and maximizing flavor.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, allowing it to shimmer but not smoke.
- Add the butter beans to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them evenly with olive oil and warm them through.
- After 3-4 minutes of gentle heating, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing them to slightly soften but maintain their shape.
- Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Remove the skillet from heat and immediately sprinkle the chopped fresh mint over the beans and tomatoes.
- Gently toss the ingredients to ensure even distribution of mint and to prevent wilting.
- Transfer to a serving dish and drizzle with an extra splash of olive oil if desired.
- Serve warm or at room temperature as a side dish or light Mediterranean-style salad.
Tips
- Pat your beans dry: Removing excess moisture ensures a perfect sauté and prevents steaming.
- Use high-quality olive oil: The oil's flavor significantly impacts the final dish, so choose a good extra virgin variety.
- Don't overcook tomatoes: They should be just softened, maintaining their fresh, bright character.
- Chop mint just before serving to preserve its vibrant flavor and prevent wilting.
- Taste and adjust seasoning gradually - a little salt and pepper go a long way.
- For extra richness, consider adding a crumble of feta cheese or a drizzle of good balsamic glaze.
- This dish is versatile - serve warm as a side or at room temperature as a light salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
