Simple butter beans

Well yesterday's delivery never arrived, so I am yet again housebound from 9am until 6pm. Today however, I was not going to let that deter me from getting out and about and speaking some Italian. Having dropped Caterina off at school at 8am, I cycled to a nearby bakery to use some of my free hour discussing all things bread. To my pleasant surprise, the owner recognised my from a couple of days previous (I'm probable getting a reputation as the annoyingly chatty English girl!)... I don't know if it's from having grown up in a village, but I love it when you become a 'regular' at your local butchers/bakers/grocers, that friendly "hi again, so how did 'so and so go' yesterday?" fills me with a warm fuzzy feeling (sorry, I'm getting a bit gushy). Anyway, this feels even better when you're living in a town that's not your own, it gives you that little sense of belonging.

For a day of simple pleasures, this is a similarly simple but pleasing little dish. Very healthy, and most definitely upgraded by the use of really good extra virgin olive oil.

Sorry for the horrid photo, I am still without my camera and relying on my webcam... hopefully this gives you a vague idea.

1 can butter beans, drained
1 large tomato, chopped into small chunks
1/2 white onion, chopped finely
1 garlic clove, chopped finely
2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
Small pinch of salt

• On a low heat, gently fry the onion and oil until the onions are softened.
• Add the tomatoes and garlic and fry for a further couple of minutes.
• Add the butter beans and salt and cover. Leave to simmer for about 5 - 10 minutes or so and then serve.