Easy Butter Beans Recipe
If you’re looking for a delightful, nutritious dish that comes together effortlessly, look no further than this Easy Butter Beans Recipe. Butter beans, with their creamy texture and mild flavor, are a fantastic base for a variety of meals. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the perfect butter beans, from the ingredients to the method, and even some tips on how to customize it to fit your dietary needs. Let’s dive in!
Top Reasons to Make Easy Butter Beans Recipe
- Quick and Simple: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
- Nutritious: Butter beans are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
- Versatile: You can serve them as a main dish, a side, or toss them into salads for added texture and flavor.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic, onion, and spices creates a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to please.
- Budget-Friendly: Using canned butter beans makes this recipe affordable without compromising on taste.
What Goes Into Easy Butter Beans Recipe
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This adds richness and helps to sauté the vegetables.
- 1/2 fresh lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish with a tangy flavor.
- 1/2 yellow onion, finely diced: Adds depth and sweetness when sautéed.
- 3-5 cloves of garlic, minced: Provides a robust flavor that complements the beans.
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/4 teaspoon dried, optional): Adds a lovely herbal note.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives a subtle smokiness and depth of flavor.
- Black pepper, to taste: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 2 (16-ounce) cans butter beans, drained and rinsed: The star ingredient, creamy and delicious.
- 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth or imitation chicken broth: Provides moisture and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Toolbox for This Recipe
- Large skillet: Essential for sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient amounts.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring the ingredients in the skillet.
- Can opener: To open the canned butter beans.
- Citrus juicer (optional): For effortlessly squeezing the lemon juice.
Stepwise Method: Easy Butter Beans Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Rinse and drain the canned butter beans and finely dice the onion and garlic.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Spices
Once the garlic is fragrant, sprinkle in the fresh thyme (if using) and smoked paprika. Stir well to combine and let the spices toast for about 30 seconds.
Step 4: Incorporate the Butter Beans
Add the drained and rinsed butter beans to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the beans with the aromatic mixture.
Step 5: Pour in the Broth
Add the vegetable broth to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and squeeze the juice of half a fresh lemon over the dish. Season with black pepper to taste. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Tailor It to Your Diet
- Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan-friendly!
- Gluten-Free: Ensure that the broth you use is gluten-free.
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth to control the salt content.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat!
If You’re Curious
This Easy Butter Beans Recipe is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. You can pair it with rice, serve it over a bed of greens, or even blend it into a soup for a creamy texture. Butter beans are rich in fiber and protein, making them a healthy alternative to meat in many dishes.
- Did you know that butter beans are also known as lima beans? Both names refer to the same legume!
- These beans have been cultivated for thousands of years and are a staple in many cuisines around the world.
- Butter beans are often used in Southern cooking, particularly in dishes like succotash.
- They’re not just delicious; they also help stabilize blood sugar levels and promote digestive health!
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
Leftover butter beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing the leftovers. Portion them into freezer-safe containers, and they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy again!
Easy Butter Beans Recipe Q&A
Can I use dried butter beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can! However, you’ll need to soak and cook the dried beans beforehand, as it will take significantly longer than using canned beans.
What can I serve with butter beans?
Butter beans pair beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. They can also be served with grilled meats or vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beans and store them in the fridge for a few days. Just reheat them before serving.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
You can add other vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition, or mix in spices such as cumin or coriander for different flavor profiles.
Ready to Cook?
Now that you have all the details for this Easy Butter Beans Recipe, it’s time to head to the kitchen and start cooking! Your taste buds will thank you for this delicious and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the cooking process, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who appreciate good food!
Easy Butter Beans Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Rinse and drain the canned butter beans and finely dice the onion and garlic.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Once the garlic is fragrant, sprinkle in the fresh thyme (if using) and smoked paprika. Stir well to combine and let the spices toast for about 30 seconds.
- Add the drained and rinsed butter beans to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the beans with the aromatic mixture.
- Add the vegetable broth to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Remove the skillet from heat and squeeze the juice of half a fresh lemon over the dish. Season with black pepper to taste. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Leftover butter beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Consider freezing leftovers in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
