Easy Butter Beans Recipe
If you’re on the lookout for a quick, nutritious, and absolutely delicious recipe, look no further than this Easy Butter Beans Recipe. Butter beans, also known as lima beans, are creamy, tender, and packed with protein. This dish is not only simple to make but also versatile, serving as a delightful side or a wholesome main. With just a few fresh ingredients and a handful of pantry staples, you can create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
The magic of this recipe lies in the combination of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic herbs. As the flavors meld together, the butter beans absorb all that goodness, making every bite a burst of flavor. Whether you enjoy them as a comforting side dish or over a bed of grains, you’ll find that this Easy Butter Beans Recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why It Works Every Time
This Easy Butter Beans Recipe is foolproof for several reasons. Firstly, using canned butter beans significantly cuts down the cooking time while ensuring a creamy texture that’s hard to resist. The sautéed garlic and onion add depth of flavor, while the fresh lemon juice brightens the dish beautifully. Smoked paprika provides a subtle smokiness that complements the beans perfectly, making this recipe a winner every time. Plus, it’s adaptable; you can easily switch up the herbs or add other vegetables to suit your taste.
Your Shopping Guide
When preparing for this Easy Butter Beans Recipe, you’ll want to gather the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and flavor.
- 1/2 fresh lemon: For a zesty kick.
- 1/2 yellow onion: Finely diced for sweetness.
- 3-5 cloves of garlic: Minced to enhance flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves: Optional, for herbal notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: For a touch of smokiness.
- Black pepper: To taste for seasoning.
- 2 (16-ounce) cans butter beans: Drained and rinsed.
- 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth: Or imitation chicken broth for rich flavor.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Optional, for garnish.
Gear Checklist
Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the following kitchen equipment:
- Large skillet: For sautéing the ingredients.
- Wooden spoon: To stir and mix everything together.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping the onion and garlic.
- Serving dish: To present your beautiful creation.
Easy Butter Beans Recipe Made Stepwise
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Finely dice the yellow onion and mince the garlic cloves. If you’re using fresh thyme, strip the leaves from the stems.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 3: Add Spices and Beans
Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika and the thyme (if using), and season with black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine the spices with the onions and garlic. Next, add the drained and rinsed butter beans to the skillet, mixing everything together gently.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth
Pour 1 1/4 cups of vegetable broth (or imitation chicken broth) into the skillet, ensuring the beans are well coated. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Simmer and Combine
Reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
Step 6: Add Fresh Lemon Juice
Once the beans are heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Squeeze the juice of 1/2 a fresh lemon over the beans, stirring to incorporate the bright flavor.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the butter beans to a serving dish and garnish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
What to Use Instead
If you find yourself missing an ingredient or two, here are some alternatives you can consider:
- Olive oil: Can be substituted with avocado oil or coconut oil.
- Yellow onion: Red onion or shallots can work as a replacement.
- Fresh thyme: Dried oregano or basil can impart a different yet lovely flavor.
- Vegetable broth: Chicken broth or water can be used in a pinch.
Testing Timeline
If you’re curious about how this recipe holds up over time, here’s a quick guide:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes.
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes.
- Total Time: 30 minutes.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
To keep your Easy Butter Beans Recipe fresh, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried butter beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried butter beans, but they will require soaking and longer cooking times. Be sure to follow package instructions for preparation.
What can I serve with butter beans?
Butter beans pair wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even as a side to grilled meats and vegetables. They can also be added to salads for extra protein.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! This Easy Butter Beans Recipe is already vegan-friendly, as all the ingredients are plant-based.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
More from the Kitchen
If you enjoyed this Easy Butter Beans Recipe, you might want to explore these delicious options:
Let’s Eat
Now that you have all the tools and tips to make this Easy Butter Beans Recipe, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! Enjoy the process, savor the aromas, and most importantly, delight in every delicious bite. This dish not only nourishes the body but also warms the heart, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking!
Easy Butter Beans Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients. Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Finely dice the yellow onion and mince the garlic cloves. If you’re using fresh thyme, strip the leaves from the stems.
- Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Step 3: Add Spices and Beans. Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika and the thyme (if using), and season with black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine the spices with the onions and garlic. Next, add the drained and rinsed butter beans to the skillet, mixing everything together gently.
- Step 4: Pour in the Broth. Pour 1 1/4 cups of vegetable broth (or imitation chicken broth) into the skillet, ensuring the beans are well coated. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
- Step 5: Simmer and Combine. Reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
- Step 6: Add Fresh Lemon Juice. Once the beans are heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Squeeze the juice of 1/2 a fresh lemon over the beans, stirring to incorporate the bright flavor.
- Step 7: Serve and Garnish. Transfer the butter beans to a serving dish and garnish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
