If you’ve been searching for a vibrant, creamy, and utterly satisfying plant-based dish, then you’ve got to try the Marry Me Beans: Vegan Mediterranean White Bean Skillet Recipe. This delightful recipe is a vegan twist on the beloved Marry Me Chicken, bursting with the sunshine flavors of the Mediterranean and a silky, comforting texture. It’s so quick to whip up and packed with wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests without the fuss. Trust me, once you try this skillet, it’ll have you saying “marry me” to this recipe forever!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Marry Me Beans: Vegan Mediterranean White Bean Skillet Recipe is simple but essential, coming together to create a dish that dazzles with flavor, texture, and color. From creamy beans to tangy sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, every bite tells a delicious story.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a fruity base that gently sautés onion and garlic for deep flavor.
- 1 15.5-ounce can white beans, drained and rinsed: The creamy heart of the dish that gives a smooth texture and plant-based protein.
- 1/2 cup vegan heavy cream or sour cream: Adds luscious creaminess and richness without any dairy.
- 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes: Imparts a tangy, slightly sweet intensity that’s totally addictive.
- 1/2 finely chopped onion: Builds a savory foundation with its gentle sweetness when cooked.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers that irresistible savory punch that wakes up the entire skillet.
- 1 sprig thyme: Brings in a subtle earthiness, complementing the Mediterranean vibe.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a whisper of heat that balances all the creamy flavors.
- 2 cups spinach: Freshens the dish with a pop of green and subtle vegetal notes.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that tie all the flavors neatly together.
How to Make Marry Me Beans: Vegan Mediterranean White Bean Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, letting them cook for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften and brown just a little. This step unlocks their natural sweetness, creating a wonderfully fragrant base for the dish.
Step 2: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Herbs
Now, stir in the oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and the sprig of thyme. These ingredients infuse the skillet with bold, Mediterranean flavors and a touch of heat. Cook them together briefly to allow their aromas to mingle and pump up the flavor volume.
Step 3: Stir in White Beans and Vegan Cream
Pour in the drained white beans and vegan heavy cream or sour cream. Stir everything gently but thoroughly, so the creamy base coats the beans and mingles with the tomatoes. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Season with salt to your liking. This is where the magic happens—rich, creamy, and satisfying.
Step 4: Fold in the Spinach
The final flourish is the fresh spinach. Add the spinach to the skillet and stir it in until it wilts down completely. This adds freshness, color, and a nutrient boost that balances the rich flavors perfectly. Now your beautiful Marry Me Beans dish is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Marry Me Beans: Vegan Mediterranean White Bean Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Marry Me Beans look as delightful as they taste, top it with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of vegan parmesan. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top right before serving also brightens the flavors and adds a zesty sparkle.
Side Dishes
This versatile Marry Me Beans: Vegan Mediterranean White Bean Skillet Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides like fluffy quinoa, tender pasta, or warm crusty bread to soak up all that creamy goodness. For a lighter option, serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette to keep everything fresh and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Feel like getting fancy? Serve the beans over a bed of grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes for a rustic Mediterranean feast. You can also use the skillet filling as a hearty topping for baked sweet potatoes or as a filling for warm pita pockets for a casual, hand-held delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Marry Me Beans adventure, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to three days, making for a great next-day lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
This particular vegan Mediterranean white bean skillet recipe doesn’t freeze well because the cream and spinach can change texture after thawing. For best results, enjoy it fresh or within a few days stored in the fridge.
Reheating
When ready to reheat, warm the Marry Me Beans gently over low heat on the stove. Stir frequently to keep the creaminess intact and prevent sticking. You can add a splash of vegan cream or water if it feels too thick during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of beans for this recipe?
Absolutely! Cannellini beans or navy beans work wonderfully in this dish and offer a similar creamy texture and mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Is this recipe very spicy because of the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a subtle hint of warmth, not overpowering heat. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your spice preference or leave them out for a completely mild version.
Can I substitute the vegan heavy cream with another ingredient?
Yes, you can try coconut cream or a homemade cashew cream as alternatives. They keep the dish creamy while maintaining its vegan integrity.
What can I serve with Marry Me Beans to make it a full meal?
Pair it with grain like quinoa or couscous, or add a side of roasted vegetables and a simple green salad. This makes for a well-rounded, wholesome Mediterranean-inspired meal.
How long does it take to make from start to finish?
This recipe is impressively quick—ready in about 15 minutes total, making it perfect for busy days when you want a healthy, delicious meal without the wait.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful, and nutritious vegan dish, the Marry Me Beans: Vegan Mediterranean White Bean Skillet Recipe absolutely deserves a spot in your kitchen repertoire. It’s effortless to make, packed with vibrant flavors, and feels like a special treat any night of the week. Give it a try soon—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Marry Me Beans: Vegan Mediterranean White Bean Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Marry Me Beans is a flavorful vegan twist on the popular Marry Me Chicken recipe. This Mediterranean-inspired dish features creamy white beans simmered with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and spinach, creating a rich and satisfying main course that’s perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 (15.5 oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup vegan heavy cream or sour cream
- 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 sprig thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 cups spinach
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the base: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes until they start to brown, releasing their fragrant aroma.
- Add flavorings and beans: Stir in the oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and thyme sprig along with the vegan heavy cream and drained white beans. Mix well, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt to taste.
- Incorporate spinach: Finally, add the spinach and stir continuously until the spinach is fully wilted and cooked through, approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove the thyme sprig before serving.
Notes
- Navy or cannellini beans can be used interchangeably with white beans in this recipe.
- Serving suggestion: pair with a green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
- This dish goes well served over pasta or quinoa for added texture and nutrition.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days; this recipe does not freeze well.