Butter Beans with Garlic Lemon Herbs

Name: Butter Beans with Garlic Lemon Herbs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups canned butter beans, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: International Recipe Collection

Butter Beans with Garlic Lemon Herbs is a delightful dish bursting with flavor and nutrition. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for a side dish or a light main course.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-12-16T20:42:17.928Z

This dish combines the creamy texture of butter beans with the refreshing zest of lemon and the aromatic flavor of garlic and herbs. Perfect for any occasion!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy butter beans paired with zesty lemon and fragrant herbs
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Healthy, nutritious, and satisfying

      

A Flavorful Combination

Butter Beans with Garlic Lemon Herbs combines the rich creaminess of butter beans with the bright, zesty notes of lemon and the aromatic qualities of fresh herbs. This medley not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a delightful contrast in textures. The garlic adds a savory depth that elevates the dish, making it incredibly satisfying. Whether you are serving it as a side or a light main course, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

The use of butter beans is particularly notable; they are not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, making them a healthy choice for any meal. When combined with lemon and herbs, they transform into a vibrant dish perfect for any season. This recipe showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of Butter Beans with Garlic Lemon Herbs is its versatility. It works wonderfully as a complement to grilled meats, seafood, or even as a hearty vegetarian option. You can serve it at family gatherings, casual weeknight dinners, or even as part of a more elaborate feast. Its bright flavors and appealing presentation make it suitable for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Additionally, this dish is quick to prepare, which is a blessing for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can whip up a delicious and nutritious meal that everyone will love. It's an ideal recipe for those looking to eat healthy without sacrificing flavor or time.

Nutritional Benefits

Butter beans are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making them a great option for vegetarians and vegans. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and folate. Incorporating butter beans into your diet can help support heart health and promote digestive wellness due to their high fiber content.

The addition of lemon not only enhances the flavor but also provides a boost of vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and skin health. The herbs used in this recipe, such as thyme and oregano, are packed with antioxidants, contributing further to the dish's health benefits. Enjoying this dish means indulging in a meal that is both delicious and nourishing.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Butter Beans with Garlic Lemon Herbs

2 cups canned butter beans, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.

Add Butter Beans

Add the butter beans to the skillet and stir well to coat them with the garlic oil. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Season and Add Lemon

Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until heated through.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Butter Beans with Garlic Lemon Herbs pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish. The zesty flavors will complement the richness of the proteins, creating a balanced plate. Alternatively, serve it on a bed of greens for a refreshing salad or alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty vegetarian meal.

For those who enjoy a Mediterranean flair, consider adding some feta cheese or olives to the dish just before serving. This will introduce additional layers of flavor and texture, enhancing the overall experience. Don't forget to drizzle a little extra olive oil on top for added richness!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, this dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors may meld together even more, making it taste even better the next day! When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent it from drying out.

For longer storage, you can freeze the butter beans. Just be sure to let them cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as previously mentioned. This makes it easy to have a nutritious side dish ready at a moment's notice.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to customize this recipe to fit your taste preferences! If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic. Alternatively, you can experiment with different herbs like rosemary or basil, which will give the dish a unique twist.

You can also add extra vegetables to the mix. Diced bell peppers or spinach can enhance the nutritional profile and add more color to the dish. Don't hesitate to get creative; cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works best for you!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried butter beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them according to package instructions before using.

→ Can I substitute other beans?

Absolutely! You can use cannellini beans or chickpeas as alternatives.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or can be served over a bed of greens.