If you’re in the mood for something comforting yet bright and fresh, the Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe is the perfect dish to whip up. Creamy, tangy, and packed with garlicky goodness, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create an irresistible bowl of buttery beans elevated by the zing of lemon and savory sautéed shallots. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a nourishing meal in just about 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekend lunches. Trust me, once you try this creamy delight, it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy butter beans!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential for delivering the creamy texture, zesty punch, and rich flavor that make this dish so special. Each component plays its part perfectly, from the softness of butter beans to the brightness of fresh lemon.
- 2 small shallots, diced, or 1 large: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed, forming the flavor base.
- 4-5 cloves garlic, finely minced: Gifts the dish its signature garlicky kick that complements the lemon beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons vegan butter: Brings richness and a luscious mouthfeel into every bite.
- 30 ounces canned butter beans (2 cans with the liquid): The star of the dish, providing creaminess and gentle, buttery flavor, plus the liquid helps create the smooth sauce.
- ¼ cup vegan cream cheese: Enhances creaminess and adds a subtle tang that balances the citrus.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Infuses brightness and freshness, cutting through the richness.
- ½ tablespoon lemon zest (zest of 1 lemon): Packs an aromatic burst of lemony fragrance that enlivens the dish.
- 3 cups spinach: Adds vibrant green color and a healthy boost of nutrients, wilting perfectly into the creamy sauce.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance and round out all the flavors.
How to Make Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe
Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Start by dicing the shallots finely and mincing the garlic cloves. Having these ready makes the cooking process smooth and quick, and finely minced garlic releases the most flavor during sautéing.
Step 2: Sauté Shallots and Garlic
In a large pot over medium heat, gently melt the vegan butter. Add the diced shallots first and let them soften for about 2 minutes before tossing in the minced garlic. Continue to sauté for about 3 minutes until fragrant, soft, and golden. This step builds the foundation of that warm and rich flavor we crave.
Step 3: Add Butter Beans with Liquid
Pour the canned butter beans into the pot, making sure to include all the liquid. This liquid is pure gold — it contributes to creating the sauce’s creamy consistency. Let the beans simmer gently for about 5 minutes to absorb all that garlicky buttery goodness.
Step 4: Stir in Creamy Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring the dish to life with the vegan cream cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir everything together, letting the cream cheese melt into the beans, creating a silky, luscious sauce. Simmer on low for another 2 minutes so those flavors meld perfectly.
Step 5: Add Spinach
Turn off the heat and fold in the spinach. The residual warmth will gently wilt the leaves without overcooking them, preserving their vibrant color and fresh flavor, while adding a lovely texture contrast to the creamy beans.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Finish by seasoning with salt and plenty of freshly ground black pepper – I recommend at least half a teaspoon of pepper to give the dish a bit of a spicy sparkle. Serve this Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe warm, ideally alongside toasted crusty bread to soak up every last bit of delicious sauce.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme can elevate the dish with an extra pop of color and a garden-fresh aroma. For a touch of texture, toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds make a lovely crunchy topping that pairs wonderfully with the creamy beans.
Side Dishes
This dish stands beautifully on its own or pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Try serving it alongside a crisp green salad for freshness, or with roasted root vegetables for a hearty meal. Crusty bread or garlic naan are perfect for mopping up the luscious sauce, making each bite thoroughly satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your guests? Serve the creamy butter beans in shallow bowls topped with microgreens and a drizzle of good olive oil for a restaurant-worthy presentation. You can even spoon it over cooked quinoa or rice for a more filling, grain-bowled meal that boasts contrasting textures and flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe keeps perfectly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors deepen as it rests, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Cool completely and transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You may want to add a splash of plant-based milk or water to loosen up the sauce and revive its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh butter beans can be used but will require soaking and cooking before adding to the recipe. Using canned beans saves time and the liquid included helps create the creamy sauce.
Is this recipe vegan and dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe uses vegan butter and vegan cream cheese, making it completely plant-based and dairy-free while still creamy and rich.
What can I substitute if I don’t have vegan cream cheese?
You can substitute with coconut cream or cashew cream for similar creaminess. Just adjust the amount slightly to taste.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes during sautéing or a dash of hot sauce when serving to give it a spicy kick that pairs nicely with the lemon and garlic flavors.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a party?
Yes! Prepare everything up to the spinach step. When ready to serve, gently reheat and add the fresh spinach to wilt just before serving for the best taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe inspires you to bring a fresh, cozy touch to your table. Its simple ingredients come together to create something truly special, perfect for anyone who loves a blend of comfort and brightness in one bowl. Give it a try and I promise it will become a favorite that you’ll turn to again and again!
Print
Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans recipe is a vibrant, comforting dish featuring tender canned butter beans simmered with shallots, garlic, vegan butter, and a zesty blend of lemon juice and zest. Enhanced with vegan cream cheese for a luscious texture and fresh spinach for a burst of color and nutrients, it makes a perfect quick and wholesome meal served warm, preferably with toasted bread.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 small shallots, diced, or 1 large shallot
- 4–5 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 3 Tablespoons vegan butter
- 30 ounces canned butter beans (2 cans with liquid included)
- ¼ cup vegan cream cheese
- 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
- ½ Tablespoon lemon zest (zest of 1 lemon)
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- Salt & pepper to taste (recommend at least ½ teaspoon pepper)
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Finely dice the shallots and mince the garlic cloves to prepare them 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 translucent.
- Add Beans: Pour in the canned butter beans along with their liquid directly into the pot. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors and warm the beans thoroughly.
- Add Creamy Ingredients: Stir in the vegan cream cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest into the simmering beans. Continue to simmer for an additional 2 minutes until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add Spinach: Turn off the heat, then add the fresh spinach to the pot. Stir gently until the spinach is just wilted by the residual heat.
- Season and Serve: Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors are balanced. Serve warm, ideally with toasted bread for a delightful meal.
Notes
- Use the liquid from the canned butter beans to retain flavor and creamy consistency.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to your preferred level of tanginess.
- For an extra protein boost, consider adding some cooked vegan sausage or tempeh on the side.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with toasted crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
- To make the recipe gluten-free, ensure the toasted bread served alongside is gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
