Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans, perfect for a quick vegan meal. This dish combines the creaminess of butter beans with the bright flavors of lemon and garlic, all in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients

• 2 small shallots, diced (or 1 large)
• 4-5 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 3 tablespoons vegan butter
• 30 ounces canned butter beans (2 cans, with liquid—do not strain)
• ¼ cup vegan cream cheese (e.g., Violife or Kitehill)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• ½ tablespoon lemon zest (zest of 1 lemon)
• 3 cups spinach (can substitute with kale or chard)
• Salt and pepper to taste (recommend at least ½ teaspoon pepper)

Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients: Finely chop the shallots and mince the garlic. A garlic press can make this easier.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or pan, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the shallots and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Butter Beans: Pour in the canned butter beans along with their liquid. This liquid, known as aquafaba, is crucial for achieving creaminess, so do not drain it. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
4. Incorporate Creaminess: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vegan cream cheese until fully mixed in. Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Add Greens: Turn off the heat and fold in the spinach until it wilts. Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Enjoy your creamy lemon garlic butter beans warm, ideally with crusty bread or over pasta.

This recipe is not only quick but also packed with flavor and nutrition, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch[1][2].

You can certainly use frozen butter beans instead of canned ones in your recipe. Just ensure to thaw them before cooking, and you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly since frozen beans can take longer to heat through.

Herbs to Add

For enhancing the lemon garlic sauce, consider adding the following herbs:

• Thyme: Adds a subtle earthiness.
• Rosemary: Provides a fragrant, pine-like flavor.
• Parsley: Offers freshness and color.
• Basil: Adds a sweet, aromatic touch.
• Dill: Gives a unique tangy flavor that pairs well with lemon.

Making It Spicier

To add some heat to your creamy lemon garlic butter beans, you can:

• Incorporate red pepper flakes: Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
• Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers: Fresh or pickled for a zesty kick.
• Use hot sauce: A few dashes can elevate the spice level without overpowering the dish.

Substituting Vegan Butter

You can substitute vegan butter with olive oil. Use about ¾ cup of olive oil for every cup of vegan butter called for in the recipe. Olive oil will impart a different flavor profile but works well in savory dishes like this one[1][2][3].

Side Dishes Pairing

Creamy lemon garlic butter beans pair well with:

• Quinoa or rice: For a hearty base.
• Roasted vegetables: Such as asparagus or broccoli for added texture.
• A fresh salad: With greens and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Crusty bread: Perfect for scooping up the creamy beans.

These adjustments and pairings will enhance your dish and cater to your taste preferences!