Here’s a flavorful and satisfying recipe for Spicy Arrabbiata Butter Beans—a hearty dish that’s perfect as a main or side. This recipe balances the creaminess of butter beans with the fiery punch of arrabbiata sauce, delivering a dish that’s both comforting and bold.

Spicy Arrabbiata Butter Beans

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) butter beans (or 3 cups cooked butter beans)
• 3 tbsp olive oil (Eden Gourmet’s extra virgin olive oil is perfect)
• 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1 small red chili, finely chopped (or 1 tsp red chili flakes, adjust to taste)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• Handful of fresh basil leaves
• Grated Parmesan cheese or vegan alternative (optional, for garnish)
• Crusty bread or steamed rice (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Butter Beans:
   • Rinse and drain the butter beans if using canned. Set aside.
2. Make the Base:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, chili, and onion. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3–5 minutes.
3. Build the Sauce:
   • Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen its flavor.
   • Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
4. Add the Butter Beans:
   • Gently fold the butter beans into the sauce. Let them simmer in the sauce for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure they’re evenly coated and heated through.
5. Finish with Fresh Herbs:
   • Tear the basil leaves and fold them into the dish just before serving.
6. Serve and Garnish:
   • Serve the spicy arrabbiata butter beans hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese (or a vegan alternative). Pair with crusty bread or serve over a bed of steamed rice.

This dish is bold, flavorful, and super versatile. For extra depth, you can add a splash of red wine to the sauce during step 3, or toss in some sautéed greens like spinach or kale in step 4.