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Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe

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4.1 from 33 reviews

This creamy lemon garlic butter beans recipe is a delightful plant-based dish featuring tender butter beans simmered in a luscious blend of vegan butter, cream cheese, fresh lemon zest, and garlic. Enhanced with vibrant spinach and seasoned to perfection, it delivers comfort and zest in every bite. Perfect as a hearty side or a light main when served with toasted bread, this dish is quick to prepare and packed with wholesome flavors.

Ingredients

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 2 small shallots, diced (or 1 large)
  • 4-5 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 3 cups spinach

Beans & Dairy Alternatives

  • 30 ounces canned butter beans (2 cans with liquid included, do not strain)
  • ¼ cup vegan cream cheese

Fats & Seasonings

  • 3 tablespoons vegan butter
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • ½ tablespoon lemon zest (zest of 1 lemon)
  • Salt & pepper to taste (recommend at least ½ teaspoon pepper)

Instructions

  1. Prep Aromatics: Finely dice the shallots and mince the garlic cloves using a garlic press if available for a fine texture.
  2. Melt Butter: Add the vegan butter to a large pot and melt it over medium heat until it starts sizzling.
  3. Sauté Shallots and Garlic: Add prepared shallots and garlic to the melted butter. Stir and sauté for about 3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
  4. Add Butter Beans: Pour in the two cans of butter beans with their liquid intact to maintain creaminess. Stir and bring to a simmer, cooking for 5 minutes to reduce excess liquid and lightly cook the beans.
  5. Add Cream Cheese and Lemon: Stir in the vegan cream cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest until fully mixed. Return to a simmer and cook for an additional 2 minutes to combine flavors.
  6. Wilt Spinach and Season: Turn off the heat. Stir in the fresh spinach and mix until the leaves wilt. Season with salt and pepper to your taste preference.
  7. Serve: Serve the creamy lemon garlic butter beans warm, ideally accompanied by a big slice of toasted sourdough or spelt bread. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Best served immediately with toasted sourdough or spelt bread for a tasty pairing.
  • Can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, or frozen for up to 1 month.
  • The creamy broth may solidify when chilled; reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.