If you’re on the hunt for a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, the Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe is your new best friend. Combining the luscious creaminess of vegan butter and cream cheese with lively lemon zest and garlic, this dish is not only packed with vibrant flavors but also boasts a silky texture that will keep you coming back for seconds. Plus, the simple addition of spinach adds a fresh, green pop that balances everything beautifully. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a side that impresses without fuss, this recipe is a total winner in both taste and ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe plays an essential part in building layers of flavor and texture, creating a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. From the fragrant shallots and garlic to the zesty brightness of lemon, each component is carefully chosen to complement and elevate the others.
- 2 small shallots, diced (or 1 large): Provides a subtle sweetness and complexity when sautéed.
- 4-5 cloves garlic, finely minced: Adds a punch of savory aroma that wakes up the dish.
- 3 Tablespoons vegan butter: Creates a rich, creamy base while perfectly sautéing the aromatics.
- 30 ounces canned butter beans (2 cans with liquid): The heart of the dish, butter beans bring a tender, buttery texture and protein.
- ¼ cup vegan cream cheese: For that silky, creamy consistency that makes each bite a delight.
- 2 Tablespoons lemon juice: Brightens and balances the richness with a zingy freshness.
- ½ Tablespoon lemon zest (zest of 1 lemon): Adds a spirited citrus aroma that lifts the entire recipe.
- 3 cups spinach: Offers a vibrant green color and earthy, slightly sweet flavor, plus a healthy boost.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors and brings harmony to the dish—don’t skimp on the pepper!
How to Make Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Aromatics
Begin by finely dicing the shallots and mincing the garlic. These small but mighty ingredients are going to infuse the dish with deep flavor right from the start, so getting them ready is key.
Step 2: Sauté Shallots and Garlic
Melt the vegan butter in a large pot over medium heat, then add the shallots and garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the shallots become translucent and the garlic releases its irresistible fragrance. This step builds the flavor foundation that every creamy bite depends on.
Step 3: Add Butter Beans with Liquid
Next, pour in the canned butter beans along with all their liquid—don’t strain! This extra in-pot liquid keeps the beans creamy and helps meld the flavors as you simmer everything together for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in Cream Cheese and Lemon
Now stir in the vegan cream cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes to let the creaminess meld with the bright, zesty notes, turning this dish from simple beans to something truly special.
Step 5: Add Fresh Spinach and Finish
Turn off the heat and add the fresh spinach, stirring until it wilts beautifully into the creamy mixture. Finally, season with salt and plenty of pepper to taste. This last step ties everything together with a perfect balance of seasoning.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme on top for an extra layer of freshness and a pop of green that looks stunning against the creamy backdrop. A light drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of additional lemon juice can add brightness and a touch of elegance.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with toasted crusty bread to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce. If you want a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh, crisp salad to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the beans over creamy polenta or as a bed for grilled tempeh or tofu. You can also turn it into a warm, comforting bowl topped with crunchy toasted nuts or seeds for added texture and visual interest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delightful as fresh.
Freezing
If you want to save this delicious dish for later, it freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be mindful that the spinach may change texture slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of water or plant-based milk will help bring back the creamy texture if it’s thickened too much.
FAQs
Can I use fresh beans instead of canned in this Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh or dried butter beans, just cook them until tender before adding. Keep in mind you’ll want to add some vegetable broth or water to mimic the canned bean liquid that keeps the dish creamy.
Is this dish vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free as long as you use vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
Can I use spinach alternatives?
Definitely! Kale, Swiss chard, or even baby arugula can be great substitutes. Just add them at the final step like spinach to wilt gently without losing their nutrients or texture.
How can I make this recipe more protein-rich?
Adding cooked quinoa or tossing in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds can boost the protein content without altering the flavor profile much.
What’s the best way to adjust the lemon flavor?
If you love lemon, feel free to increase the juice or zest slightly. For a more subtle lemon presence, reduce the quantities, but the brightness is what makes this recipe pop, so it’s worth experimenting!
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe is a bright, cozy, and endlessly satisfying dish that’s easy to make anytime you want a flavorful, nourishing meal. It’s like sunshine on a plate with every creamy, garlicky spoonful, and I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love just like I did.
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Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegetarian American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans recipe features tender butter beans simmered in a flavorful blend of vegan butter, garlic, shallots, and creamy vegan cream cheese, enhanced with fresh lemon juice and zest. Finished with vibrant spinach, it offers a comforting yet bright plant-based dish perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 small shallots, diced (or 1 large shallot)
- 4–5 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 3 cups spinach
- ½ tablespoon lemon zest (zest of 1 lemon)
Beans & Dairy Alternatives
- 30 ounces canned butter beans (2 cans including the liquid, do not strain)
- ¼ cup vegan cream cheese
Fats & Seasonings
- 3 Tablespoons vegan butter
- 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt & pepper to taste (recommend at least ½ teaspoon pepper)
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Finely dice the shallots and mince the garlic to prepare them for sautéing.
- Sauté Shallots and Garlic: In a large pot, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Add the diced shallots and minced garlic, and sauté them gently for about 3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Add Beans: Pour in the canned butter beans along with their liquid. This liquid helps keep the beans creamy. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to heat the beans through and blend flavors.
- Add Creamy Ingredients: Stir in the vegan cream cheese, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Simmer everything together for an additional 2 minutes to combine the creamy texture with bright lemon notes.
- Add Spinach: Turn off the heat and fold in the fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts gently in the residual heat, ensuring it retains its vibrant color and nutrients.
- Season and Serve: Season the dish with salt and pepper to your taste (at least ½ teaspoon pepper recommended). Serve the creamy lemon garlic butter beans warm, ideally with toasted bread for dipping.
Notes
- Do not strain the canned butter beans; the liquid adds creaminess to the dish.
- Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the brightest citrus flavor.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference, but the pepper enhances depth.
- Serve with crusty toasted bread or as a side to grains for a complete meal.
- This recipe is vegan and can be made gluten-free if the bread is gluten-free.
