Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe

This delicious vegan dish features butter beans enhanced with garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs. It’s quick to prepare and offers a creamy texture that pairs well with crusty bread or as a side dish. Here’s how to make it.

Ingredients

• Butter Beans: 30 ounces (2 cans), with liquid
• Vegan Butter: 3 tablespoons
• Shallots: 2 small, diced (or 1 large)
• Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced
• Vegan Cream Cheese: ¼ cup (optional for creaminess)
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons
• Lemon Zest: ½ tablespoon (zest of 1 lemon)
• Spinach: 3 cups (or substitute with kale or chard)
• Salt and Pepper: to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

• Finely chop the shallots and mince the garlic. Using a garlic press can save time.

Sauté Aromatics:

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the vegan butter over medium heat.
• Add the shallots and garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until softened.

Add Butter Beans:

• Pour in the canned butter beans along with their liquid (do not strain). Stir to combine.
• Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, helping to evaporate some of the liquid.

Incorporate Creaminess:

• Stir in the vegan cream cheese until fully mixed.
• Add lemon juice and zest, continuing to cook for another 2-3 minutes on low heat.

Finish with Greens:

• Remove from heat and fold in the spinach until wilted.
• Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste.

Serve:

• Enjoy warm as a main or side dish, ideally paired with crusty bread for dipping.

Variations

• Herbs: Feel free to add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or oregano for additional flavor.
• Spiciness: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
• Creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, increase the amount of vegan cream cheese or add non-dairy yogurt.

This recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with protein and flavor, making it a perfect choice for a healthy meal any day of the week.

You can enhance your lemon garlic butter beans dish in several ways. Here are answers to your specific questions:

Alternative Herbs

In place of parsley, dill, and oregano, consider using:

• Basil: Offers a sweet and aromatic flavor.
• Rosemary: Adds a robust, pine-like taste.
• Thyme: Provides a subtle earthiness.
• Cilantro: Gives a fresh and slightly citrusy note.
• Chives: Adds a mild onion flavor.

Using Frozen Butter Beans

Yes, you can use frozen butter beans instead of canned ones. Just ensure to thaw them before cooking, or you can add them directly to the pan with a bit of extra cooking time to allow them to heat through.

Making It Spicier

To add some heat to your dish, try:

• Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle in during cooking for a consistent heat.
• Fresh Chilis: Add diced fresh chilis or jalapeños.
• Hot Sauce: Drizzle your favorite hot sauce before serving.
• Smoked Paprika or Urfa Pepper: These spices can add both heat and depth.

Side Dishes That Pair Well

Herby lemon butter beans pair nicely with:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping.
• Grilled Vegetables: Adds a smoky flavor contrast.
• Salads: A fresh green salad balances the richness of the beans.
• Rice or Quinoa: Provides a hearty base for the meal.

Preparing in Advance

You can prepare this recipe in advance. Cook the butter beans and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth if needed to restore moisture. Adding fresh herbs just before serving will keep their flavor vibrant.