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Homemade Easy Butter Beans Recipe photo

Easy Butter Beans Recipe

This Easy Butter Beans Recipe is a delightful dish! Creamy, protein-packed beans sautéed with garlic and herbs, perfect for any meal!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

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 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 cans butter beans 16-ounce, drained and rinsed.
  • 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth Or imitation chicken broth for rich flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley Optional, for garnish.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Serving Dish

Method
 

Instructions
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.