If you are looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe is going to become your new favorite. This simple yet sumptuous recipe brings together the brightness of fresh lemon, the rich silkiness of vegan butter and cream cheese, and the earthy goodness of butter beans, all rounded out by fragrant garlic and tender spinach. It’s creamy, zesty, and comforting – perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful side that impresses without fuss. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll keep coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that pack an incredible punch of flavor and texture. Each item plays a key role, from the aromatic shallots that create a flavorful base to the lush creaminess brought by vegan butter and cream cheese. Fresh lemon juice and zest add that unmistakable zing, while spinach gives a vibrant pop of color and nutrients. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this creamy delight:
- Shallots (2 small or 1 large): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor essential for the base.
- Garlic (4-5 cloves, finely minced): Infuses the beans with a fragrant, savory aroma that wakes up the dish.
- Vegan butter (3 tablespoons): Melts into a rich, creamy foundation that makes the beans luxuriously silky.
- Butter beans (30 ounces canned with liquid): The star ingredient, providing a creamy texture and hearty protein without straining the liquid.
- Vegan cream cheese (¼ cup): Enhances creaminess and adds a tangy note that balances the lemon beautifully.
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brightens the dish with fresh acidity, lifting all the flavors.
- Lemon zest (½ tablespoon): Adds concentrated citrus aroma and a subtle sharpness.
- Spinach (3 cups): Freshens the dish with a tender green bite and loads of nutrients.
- Salt & pepper: To taste, but don’t skimp on the pepper—it really highlights the garlic and lemon.
How to Make Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Aromatics
Start by finely dicing the shallots and mincing the garlic cloves. These ingredients form the flavorful backbone of the dish, so take a moment to get them just right. The finer the cut, the more evenly they’ll cook and release their delicious fragrance.
Step 2: Sauté Shallots and Garlic in Vegan Butter
Melt the vegan butter in a large pot over medium heat, then add the diced shallots and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This step creates an irresistible, buttery garlic aroma that will fill your kitchen—the kind that makes you eager to dive into the recipe.
Step 3: Add Butter Beans with Liquid
Next, pour in the canned butter beans along with their liquid—do not strain! The liquid helps create that creamy texture we’re aiming for. Let everything simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the beans to warm through and the flavors to meld. This simmering step is where the magic begins to happen.
Step 4: Stir in Vegan Cream Cheese, Lemon Juice, and Lemon Zest
Now it’s time to elevate the dish with creaminess and brightness. Add the vegan cream cheese first and stir until melted and smooth. Then incorporate the fresh lemon juice and zest, which will give the beans a refreshing punch. Let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes so the flavors marry perfectly.
Step 5: Wilt in Fresh Spinach
Turn off the heat and gently fold in the fresh spinach. It will wilt quickly from the residual warmth, adding vibrant color and a mild, fresh flavor that complements the richness. This finishing touch brings balance and a hint of healthy green goodness to the Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe.
Step 6: Season and Serve Warm
Finally, season the dish with salt and pepper to your liking. I recommend starting with at least half a teaspoon of pepper to enhance the garlic and lemon notes. Serve this creamy creation warm, ideally with some toasted bread to soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes can take this dish to the next level. A little extra lemon zest on top right before serving also adds a zesty pop that looks as delightful as it tastes. Garnishes provide that extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, making your plate irresistible.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe pairs beautifully with crusty toasted bread or warm pita for dipping. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a simple quinoa salad. The creamy beans offer a comforting contrast to crisp or crunchy sides, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the beans over a bed of creamy polenta or mashed potatoes to create a hearty, comforting bowl. Alternatively, spoon them into hollowed-out bell peppers or small acorn squashes for an eye-catching presentation that’s perfect for entertaining. The creamy texture and bright lemon flavors lend themselves well to creative plating that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors develop even more after sitting, so leftovers taste fantastic. Just give the beans a quick stir before reheating to bring everything back together.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare ahead. Place cooled beans in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results to preserve the creamy texture without becoming watery.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of plant-based milk or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving at high heat to keep the texture smooth and creamy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh butter beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh or dried butter beans can be used, but you’ll need to cook them properly beforehand. Using canned beans with their liquid saves time and helps create a naturally creamy sauce, so that’s the easiest option for this recipe.
Is this recipe completely vegan?
Yes, the recipe uses vegan butter and vegan cream cheese, making it entirely plant-based and suitable for vegan diets. You can easily find these ingredients in most grocery stores or specialty shops.
Can I substitute the spinach with another green?
Definitely. Baby kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula can work well. Just add them at the end like the spinach and allow them to wilt slightly in the residual heat.
How can I make this recipe less creamy if I prefer?
To make it lighter, reduce the amount of vegan butter and cream cheese, or add extra lemon juice and some vegetable broth. This will give you more of a broth-style dish while keeping the essential flavor components.
What can I serve with this for a complete meal?
Pair this dish with grains like quinoa, rice, or couscous and a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. The creamy beans provide protein and richness, making it easy to round out with your favorite sides.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing, and the Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe hits that sweet spot perfectly. It’s simple to prepare, full of vibrant flavors, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding friends, this comforting recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll understand why I’m so excited to share it with you!
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Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans recipe combines tender butter beans with a rich, tangy lemon garlic butter sauce, finished with fresh spinach for a nutritious and flavorful dish. Perfect as a comforting side or light main, it’s quick to prepare and uses simple plant-based ingredients.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 small shallots, diced (or 1 large shallot)
- 4–5 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 3 cups fresh spinach
Dairy-Free Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons vegan butter
- ¼ cup vegan cream cheese
Beans and Citrus
- 30 ounces canned butter beans (2 cans, with the liquid added to the pot – do not strain)
- 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
- ½ Tablespoon lemon zest (zest of 1 lemon)
Seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste (recommend at least ½ teaspoon pepper)
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Finely dice the shallots and mince the garlic cloves to prepare for sautéing.
- Sauté Shallots and Garlic: Melt the vegan butter in a large pot over medium heat, then add the diced shallots and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Add Beans: Pour in the canned butter beans along with their liquid directly into the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Add Creamy Ingredients: Stir in the vegan cream cheese, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let the mixture simmer gently for an additional 2 minutes to thicken the sauce.
- Add Spinach: Turn off the heat and add the fresh spinach to the pot. Stir until the spinach wilts and is well incorporated into the creamy bean mixture.
- Season and Serve: Season the dish with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Serve warm, ideally alongside toasted bread for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Do not strain the canned butter beans; the liquid adds to the creaminess and flavor of the dish.
- Use vegan cream cheese and butter to keep the recipe dairy-free and suitable for a vegan diet.
- Adjust lemon juice and zest to your taste for more or less tanginess.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping or can be served over rice or grains for a heartier meal.
- Spinach can be substituted with other leafy greens such as kale or Swiss chard if preferred.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
