Start by washing and slicing the courgettes and finely chopping the onion. Crushing the garlic releases its flavor, which makes a big difference in the finished dish. I like to prep everything before turning on the heat—it makes cooking smoother.
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. Then, add the courgettes and thyme, letting them gently soften for about 10 minutes.
Stir in the drained butter beans and chopped tomatoes. Simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The beans absorb the flavors while staying creamy, and the sauce thickens naturally.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. I sometimes add a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness. Serve hot, or let it cool slightly for a more mellow flavor