If you love creamy, comforting meals that are packed with flavour, these Marry Me Beans are going to become a new favourite. Inspired by the classic “Marry Me” sauce, this vegan version combines creamy coconut milk, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and Italian-inspired spices with hearty cannellini beans for a cozy meal that comes together easily.
To make this dish even more satisfying, it’s topped with crispy Tuscan tofu, perfectly seasoned with herbs, smoked paprika, and sundried tomatoes for a delicious boost of plant-based protein. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner served with crusty bread, pasta, rice, or your favourite grain to soak up all that creamy sauce.
Whether you’re looking for a simple plant-based meal, trying to add more protein to your diet, or just craving something warm and comforting, this recipe delivers on flavour and nutrition.
Nutritional Benefits
High in plant-based protein
This recipe is a great source of plant-based protein thanks to the combination of cannellini beans and tofu. Protein helps support muscle maintenance, keeps you feeling full and satisfied, and is important for overall health. Combining different plant protein sources throughout the day can help you meet your protein needs.
Packed with fibre
Cannellini beans are naturally rich in fibre, which supports digestive health, helps promote regular bowel movements, and contributes to feeling fuller after meals.
Rich in plant nutrients
The sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, basil, and spices add a variety of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and beneficial plant compounds. Eating a variety of colourful plant foods is a simple way to support overall health.
Heart-healthy ingredients
Beans are a staple in many heart-healthy eating patterns because they provide fibre, plant-based protein, and important nutrients like potassium and magnesium.
A satisfying balanced meal
With protein, fibre, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, this recipe makes a balanced vegan meal that is both nourishing and comforting.
Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
30 mins
Total Time
45 mins
Difficulty:
Beginner
Servings:
4
Description
Creamy, flavour-packed Marry Me Beans with crispy Tuscan tofu is a comforting high-protein vegan meal made with creamy coconut sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and hearty cannellini beans.
Ingredients
Crispy Tuscan Tofu:
350g Extra firm tofu
1tbsp olive oil
1/2tbsp liquid aminos
3/4tsp baking soda
2tbsp corn starch
1tbsp nutritional yeast
1tsp oregano
2tbsp finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes
1/2tsp asafoetida (hing)
1/2tsp smoked paprika
salt sprinkled on top to taste
Marry Me Beans:
1tbsp oil from sundried tomatoes
1tsp oregano
1/2tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1/2tsp smoked paprika
1/2tsp asafoetida (hing)
1/2cup sun-dried tomato, chopped
1/4cup tomato paste
1/2cup vegetable broth
1/4cup fresh basil, chopped
2cans cannellini beans 540mL/can (drained and rinsed)
400mL coconut milk
1/3cup vegan parmesan
2cups fresh spinach, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Topping: chopped fresh basil and crushed red pepper flakes
Serve with crusty bread
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2
Make the crispy Tuscan tofu: Press 1 block extra-firm tofu. Divide the tofu block into 3 large rectangles cut length wise. Then cut it in half to make squares, then cut each square across to create large triangles. Toss with a drizzle of olive oil, liquid aminos, baking soda, cornstarch, nutritional yeast, oregano, sun-dried tomatoes, asafoetida and smoked paprika. Spread in a single layer on a parchment covered baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
3
Meanwhile, heat oil from sundried tomato jar in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and smoked paprika. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5
Pour in the vegetable broth and stir until the tomato paste is fully incorporated.
6
Add the coconut milk and cannellini beans. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
7
Stir in the vegan parmesan, spinach, and fresh basil. Cook until the spinach has slightly wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8
Top with the crispy baked tofu just before serving. Finish with more basil, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Serve with crusty bread, pasta, or rice.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Amount Per Serving
Calories618kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat24g37%
Saturated Fat8g40%
Total Carbohydrate67g23%
Dietary Fiber17g68%
Sugars7g
Protein34g68%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.