Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe
If you love dishes that come together in a flash but taste like they simmered all day, this Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe is bound to be your new go-to. It’s a dreamy medley of tender butter beans gently simmered with fragrant garlic, bright lemon, and a splash of rich cream, coming together in one skillet for effortless elegance. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying side, a light main, or a cozy addition to weeknight dinner, these beans promise major flavor and soul-soothing comfort in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe so memorable is its simplicity—each ingredient shines, working to build layers of creamy, zesty, and utterly craveable flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need (and why you absolutely shouldn’t skip a thing):
- Olive oil: Brings richness and helps infuse the aromatics for a lush base flavor.
- Garlic: Four cloves for an irresistible garlicky backbone—give them a good mince to release all that aroma.
- Shallot: The secret to subtle sweetness and mellow depth, finely chopped so it melts right in.
- Butter beans: The heart of the recipe—creamy, hearty, and perfect for soaking up all those vibrant flavors.
- Lemon zest: Adds a zingy brightness that makes the dish sing.
- Lemon juice: Doubles down on citrus and helps balance out the creamy richness.
- Vegetable broth: Gives extra flavor and helps create that luscious sauce.
- Heavy cream (or coconut cream): Makes everything velvety—swap for coconut cream if you want to keep things dairy-free.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Just the tiniest kick of heat to wake up the palate—add as much or as little as you like.
- Salt and black pepper: The essentials for waking up all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley: A last sprinkle for freshness and color—don’t skip it!
How to Make Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating your olive oil in a roomy skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and finely chopped shallot, and let them sizzle for about two to three minutes. As they soften, your kitchen will fill with an inviting, mouthwatering aroma—that’s when you know you’re on the right track!
Step 2: Add the Butter Beans
Directly into the fragrant base, add your drained and rinsed butter beans. Stir everything together and let the beans warm through. It only takes two minutes, but that bit of extra time coaxing the beans in the oil is what gives them irresistible flavor.
Step 3: Boost with Lemon and Broth
Now’s the time for a big burst of brightness! Stir in the lemon zest and juice, then pour in the vegetable broth. Give it all a gentle mix and let everything simmer for three to four minutes. The beans absorb all those zingy notes and the broth reduces just enough to start forming a dreamy sauce.
Step 4: Stir in Cream
Pour in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and stir gently so everything marries together. Let the mixture bubble away for another two to three minutes, until it’s thickened up to a creamy consistency that looks downright luxurious.
Step 5: Season and Finish
Finish strong by seasoning with red pepper flakes (if using), plus salt and black pepper to taste. Once you’re happy with the balance, take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for that pop of color and freshness. Your Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe is ready to serve!
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe
Garnishes
A final flourish of chopped parsley is classic, but why stop there? Try a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest, a drizzle of good olive oil, or even a few shavings of parmesan (if not vegan). These touches amp up the freshness and look beautiful at the table.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe pairs like a dream alongside crusty bread—perfect for scooping up every bit of the sauce. Roasted vegetables, simple green salads, or grilled proteins also make a lovely, well-rounded plate. You’ll find yourself craving this combo more often than you think!
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to get playful! Spoon the beans over toasted sourdough for a hearty brunch, or serve them atop wilted spinach for a nutritious twist. They’re also fantastic spooned over pasta or as part of a Mediterranean mezze board. Let your imagination (and appetite) be your guide!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which honestly might be rare), simply transfer the Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days, and know that the flavors will deepen while they sit.
Freezing
Want to enjoy these beans down the road? Good news! They freeze beautifully. Let them cool completely, portion into freezer-friendly containers, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To bring the Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe back to life, gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Microwave works too—just go low and slow, giving everything a gentle stir for even heating.
FAQs
Can I make this vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or any unsweetened plant-based cream. The dish will still be luscious and satisfying, with a subtle coconut note that pairs beautifully with the lemon and garlic.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can. If using dried butter beans, soak them overnight and simmer until tender. You’ll need about three cups of cooked beans for the Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe. Make sure the beans are fully cooked before starting the recipe.
What if I don’t have shallots?
No shallots? No problem! Substitute with a small yellow or sweet onion, finely chopped. The flavor will be slightly sharper, but it works beautifully in this creamy, lemony dish.
How spicy is this recipe?
It’s totally up to you! The red pepper flakes are optional—add a little for gentle warmth, or leave them out if you prefer no heat. That way, everyone at the table is happy.
Can I serve the Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe as a main dish?
Definitely! These beans are filling and full of protein, making them an excellent light main course. Serve with bread, salad, or roasted veggies for a satisfying meal that ticks all the boxes.
Final Thoughts
If you’re on the hunt for a dish that delivers big flavor and maximum comfort with minimal effort, you’ll adore this Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe. It’s as cozy as a hug, as bright as a sunny day, and truly impossible to resist. Give this recipe a go—you’ll want to make it again and again!
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Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of our Lemon Garlic Butter Beans recipe. This Mediterranean-inspired dish offers a perfect balance of flavors with a hint of lemon zest, garlic, and the richness of butter beans in a velvety sauce.
Ingredients
Olive Oil:
2 tablespoons
Garlic (minced):
4 cloves
Shallot (finely chopped):
1 small
Butter Beans (drained and rinsed):
2 cans (15 ounces each)
Lemon Zest:
1 teaspoon
Lemon Juice:
2 tablespoons
Vegetable Broth:
1/2 cup
Heavy Cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free):
1/3 cup
Red Pepper Flakes (optional):
1/4 teaspoon
Salt and Black Pepper:
to taste
Fresh Parsley (chopped):
2 tablespoons
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: In a skillet over medium heat.
- Stir in the butter beans: Cook for 2 minutes to warm through.
- Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and vegetable broth: Simmer for 3–4 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Pour in the heavy cream: Simmer for 2–3 minutes until creamy.
- Season and serve: Add red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Garnish with parsley.
Add minced garlic and chopped shallot. Sauté until fragrant and softened.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
- Serve with crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or as a side to grilled protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
