One summer evening not too long ago, I found myself reclining on my bed, shooting Instagram recipe posts to myself. This has become my relaxation routine after tucking my daughter in: once the sound machine is switched on, I quietly make my way to my own room where I spend ten minutes in silence, casually scrolling through my Instagram discover page looking for the latest quick, one-pot recipes that I’ll ultimately never try. If something catches my eye, I send it to myself as a reminder. However, the reality is that most nights I’m simply too exhausted to attempt anything new. Unless it looks exceptionally tempting and incredibly easy, and I already have the ingredients on hand, it’s unlikely to happen.
Yet one memorable night last summer, I stumbled upon a recipe that ticked all the boxes: Marry Me Butter Beans with Creamy Tuscan Sauce. It was a straightforward bean dish featuring mostly pantry staples and only 10 minutes of cooking time. I thought it was worth a try, even if it wouldn’t taste as good as it appeared on Instagram. And here’s the surprising part: it did taste amazing. It was “marry me” delicious. In fact, I have practically formed a commitment to this recipe. Throughout the past year, I’ve prepared it, on average, twice per week. I make it so frequently that I now buy the ingredients in bulk.
There are plenty of “marry me” recipes floating around (including the original Marry Me Chicken, and its forerunner, Engagement Chicken). But this is the one I return to repeatedly. Most nights, I still recline on my bed texting recipe reels to myself (my discover page is half filled with beans now — I love it). But this is the recipe I share with everyone else.
Marry Me Butter Beans With Creamy Tuscan Sauce
Recipe by Sarah Bond
2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced (I press!)
1/2 tsp each: salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and smoked paprika
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped
2 15-oz cans butter beans (see note #1, below)
1/2 cup to 1 cup vegetable broth
1 cup chopped spinach (or more)
1 cup heavy cream (or sub half & half, 236 mL)
1/2 cup grated parmesan
2 tbsp fresh basil
In a large sauté pan or pot, melt butter, garlic, and seasonings over low-medium heat for about 2 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, beans, and broth. (Sarah recommends 1/2 cup of broth for a thicker sauce, or 1 cup for a lighter texture — which is preferable if you serve the beans over pasta or rice). Continue cooking on medium heat, uncovered, for 5 minutes.
Take it off the heat and mix in the spinach until it wilts (I usually add much more than suggested — it’s a fantastic way to increase bulk and texture without changing the flavor). Next, stir in the cream, parmesan, and basil. Enjoy it by itself with crusty bread, over rice, or with pasta.
Note #1: Depending on your location, butter beans might be referred to as large lima beans. In New York, where I reside, finding the BIG beans can be quite challenging — and I never bother to search. I utilize cannellini beans, great northern beans, or any white beans that are available.
Note #2: When preparing for myself, I skip the cheese and red pepper flakes as I’m not a fan. I often also omit the basil, as I don’t always have it at home. Sometimes, I add a generous splash of cream instead of measuring out a full cup. I mention this because, although I encourage you to try Sarah’s incredible recipe as written, I want you to realize that even if you lack ingredients, it should still turn out wonderfully!
Does anyone else have a viral dish that actually lived up to the hype? One of these days, I’ll need to whip up something else.
P.S. Five methods to use a rotisserie chicken, and the ultimate strawberry snacking cake.
Title: The Allure of Instagram-Worthy Beans: Why These Recipes Are Irresistible to Make
In the constantly changing realm of social media, Instagram has become an influential platform for sharing culinary creations. Among the countless food trends that have captured audiences, one unassuming ingredient has come to the forefront: beans. These adaptable legumes have turned into a must-have in Instagram feeds, attracting food enthusiasts with their vivid colors, varied textures, and limitless culinary opportunities. But what is it that makes these Instagram beans so enticing to prepare? Let’s explore the factors contributing to their popularity.
1. **Visual Appeal**: One of the main reasons beans have gained favor among Instagram users is their visual attractiveness. Beans appear in various shapes, sizes, and colors, from the deep reds of kidney beans to the speckled patterns of pinto beans. This diversity allows for breathtaking presentations that fit perfectly on the visually-focused platform. Whether it’s a colorful bean salad or a filling stew, these dishes are sure to attract attention and receive likes.
2. **Nutritional Powerhouse**: Beans are not only pleasing to the eye but also provide substantial nutritional value. They are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them popular among health-conscious individuals. As more people turn to plant-based diets, beans offer a nourishing and fulfilling alternative to meat, in line with the increasing trend of health and wellness on Instagram.
3. **Culinary Versatility**: The adaptability of beans is another reason they are so liked. They can be added to a wide array of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and dips. This flexibility enables both home cooks and professional chefs to explore different flavors and textures, crafting unique and original dishes that stand out on Instagram. Additionally, beans can be cooked in various manners—boiled, baked, or even sprouted—creating a world of culinary possibilities.
4. **Sustainability**: Recently, there has been a notable shift toward sustainable eating habits, and beans fit seamlessly into this trend. They are a low-impact crop, needing less water and resources compared to meat-based proteins. By incorporating beans into their diets, Instagram users can promote environmentally-conscious eating practices, appealing to an audience that values sustainability.
5. **Cultural Exploration**: Beans are a staple across global cuisines, from Mexican refried beans to Indian dal. This worldwide presence allows Instagram users to explore and showcase diverse culinary traditions. Sharing bean-based recipes serves as a chance to educate followers about various cultures, creating connections and appreciation for global flavors.
6. **Affordability and Accessibility**: Beans are a budget-friendly and easily accessible ingredient, making them an attractive choice for home cooks. In times of rising food prices, beans present an economical way to whip up tasty and fulfilling meals. Their availability in most grocery stores ensures that anyone can partake in the trend, no matter their location or budget.
7. **Engagement and Community**: Finally, the Instagram bean trend has created a sense of community among culinary enthusiasts. By exchanging bean recipes and creations, users can connect with like-minded individuals, share tips, and gain inspiration. This community spirit encourages more people to experiment with beans in their cooking, further energizing the trend.
In summary, the captivating allure of Instagram beans lies in their visual charm, nutritional benefits, culinary versatility, sustainability, cultural significance, affordability, and the sense of community they cultivate. As more individuals continue to showcase their bean-based creations, this trend is poised to flourish, inspiring even more innovative and delectable dishes. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a casual home cook, beans provide a realm of possibilities just waiting to be discovered and shared on Instagram.
