Name: Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans for a Quick Vegan Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 Small Shallots, diced (Substitution note: Use yellow onion if necessary.); 4-5 cloves Garlic, minced (Substitution note: Garlic powder can work in a pinch (1-2 tsp).); 3 tablespoons Vegan Butter (Creates the rich, creamy base for the sauce.); 1/4 cup Vegan Cream Cheese (Substitution note: Regular cream cheese can be used for a non-vegan version.); 30 ounces Canned Butter Beans (Don't strain the liquid for optimal texture.); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Enhances brightness of the dish.); 1/2 tablespoon Lemon Zest (Zest of 1 lemon, intensifies citrus flavor.); 3 cups Spinach (Substitution note: Kale can be used if preferred.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Season to taste.); 1/2 teaspoon Cracked Pepper (Season to taste.)

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The aroma of garlic sizzling in vegan butter is an unmistakable sign that something delicious is about to happen in the kitchen. As I prepared these Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans, the bright and tangy notes of fresh lemon mingled with the richness of butter beans, creating a comforting yet vibrant dish. This simple vegan recipe is not only ready in just 20 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights, but it’s also gluten-free and loaded with plant-based goodness. Each creamy spoonful offers a satisfying experience, perfect for scooping up with crusty bread or pairing alongside your favorite grain. Are you ready to transform your dinner routine with this quick culinary gem?

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Why Choose Lemon Garlic Butter Beans?

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight meal for busy schedules.

Creamy Indulgence: The combination of vegan butter and cream cheese creates a rich, velvety texture that is simply irresistible.

Flavor Explosion: Bright lemon and aromatic garlic elevate this dish, delivering a delightful burst of zest in every bite.

Versatile Pairing: Serve it with crusty bread, over rice, or alongside mashed potatoes for diverse meal options. You’ll love how it complements any dish!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether entertaining guests or enjoying a relaxed dinner at home, these Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans are sure to impress. If you’re looking for more quick recipes, check out my Peanut Butter Rice or Baked Garlic Parmesan treats!

Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Ingredients

For the Sauce
• Small Shallots (2, diced or 1 large) – Adds a gentle sweetness to balance the flavors. Substitution note: Use yellow onion if necessary.
• Garlic (4-5 cloves, minced) – Delivers aromatic pungency and savory depth. Substitution note: Garlic powder can work in a pinch (1-2 tsp).
• Vegan Butter (3 tablespoons) – Creates the rich, creamy base for the sauce, crucial for that indulgent texture.
• Vegan Cream Cheese (¼ cup) – Adds a luxurious creaminess; perfect for a vegan delight. Substitution note: Regular cream cheese can be used for a non-vegan version.

For the Beans
• Canned Butter Beans (30 ounces, 2 cans with liquid) – The star ingredient, offering protein and that signature creaminess. Note: Don’t strain the liquid, or “aquafaba,” for optimal texture.

For the Flavor Boost
• Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons) – Enhances brightness and adds a refreshing zing to the dish.
• Lemon Zest (½ tablespoon, zest of 1 lemon) – Intensifies the citrus flavor, making it truly pop.

For the Greens
• Spinach (3 cups) – A nutritious addition that adds color and vibrancy. Substitution note: Kale can be a delightful alternative if preferred.

For Seasoning
• Salt & Cracked Pepper – Season to taste for perfect balance, starting with a minimum of ½ teaspoon of each.

Feel free to get creative with variations, but no matter how you choose to prepare them, these Lemon Garlic Butter Beans are bound to become a new favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics
Begin by finely dicing your shallots and mincing the garlic. If you have a garlic press, it can make quick work of this task. Set them aside, as they will add incredible flavor to your Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans once you start cooking.

Step 2: Melt the Vegan Butter
In a large pot, melt 3 tablespoons of vegan butter over medium heat. Allow it to melt completely, creating a shimmering surface. This process should take about 1-2 minutes and will fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma, setting the stage for the flavors to come.

Step 3: Sauté Shallots and Garlic
Add the prepared shallots and minced garlic to the pot with the melted butter. Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the shallots become translucent and fragrant. This step enhances the flavor of your Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans, creating a delightful base for the dish.

Step 4: Incorporate the Butter Beans
Next, add the canned butter beans, including their liquid, into the pot. Stir gently to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow the beans to cook for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the liquid reduce slightly for a creamier texture.

Step 5: Mix in Creamy Ingredients
Stir in ¼ cup of vegan cream cheese, along with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and ½ tablespoon of lemon zest. Continue to simmer for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the cream cheese to melt and create a rich, velvety sauce that envelops the beans perfectly.

Step 6: Add the Spinach
Once the creamy mixture is ready, remove the pot from heat and gently fold in the spinach until just wilted, which will take about 1 minute. The heat from the sauce will soften the spinach while maintaining its vibrant color, adding nutrition and a pop of freshness to your Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans.

Step 7: Season and Serve
Finally, season your dish with salt and cracked pepper to taste, starting with at least ½ teaspoon of each. Serve your warm Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans with toasted crusty bread for scooping, creating a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

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Expert Tips for Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans

Properly Dice Shallots: Make sure your shallots are finely diced to ensure a sweet flavor that melds nicely with the rest of the ingredients without being overpowering.
Don’t Skimp on Liquid: Always include the liquid from the canned butter beans when cooking; it’s key for achieving the creamy texture of these Lemon Garlic Butter Beans.
Monitor Spinach Cooking: Wilt the spinach just until vibrant and tender to avoid losing its bright color and nutritional value—overcooking will dull its freshness.
Layering Flavors: Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for a subtle kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Adjust Consistency: If the dish seems too thick, stir in a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve your preferred creaminess.
Season Generously: Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end; fresh lemon juice and cracked pepper elevate the flavors, making your dish truly shine!

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dish any night of the week! You can chop the shallots and mince the garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can drain and rinse the canned butter beans, then combine them with the liquid in the pot, ready to simmer at a moment’s notice. When you’re ready to enjoy the dish, simply sauté the aromatics, add the beans, and finish with vegan cream cheese, lemon juice, and spinach as instructed. Your creamy vegan delight will taste just as delicious, saving you precious time on busy weeknights!

Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Variations

Ready to make these Lemon Garlic Butter Beans truly your own? Let your culinary creativity flourish with these delightful twists!

Greens Swap: Substitute spinach with kale or arugula for a different texture and a peppery flavor. The rich creaminess of the sauce complements the hearty greens beautifully.
Mushroom Delight: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth. Their umami notes meld seamlessly with the garlic and lemon, creating a robust flavor profile.
Zesty Lime: Swap lemon juice for lime juice to introduce a fresh twist on the citrus flavor. This gives the dish a unique zing that will surprise your taste buds.
Creamy Nutty Touch: Incorporate a spoonful of tahini for a nutty flavor that enhances the creaminess. It’s an unexpected delight that adds richness and taste harmony.
Heat It Up: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. The heat dances beautifully with the lemon and garlic, creating a warm and inviting dish.
Savory Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet, tangy contrast. They elevate the Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans with bursts of flavor in each bite.
Herbal Boost: Mix in a handful of fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, for an aromatic lift. Their fresh taste complements the creamy base and adds vibrant color to the dish.
Nut Free: For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter instead of vegan cream cheese. This keeps it creamy while catering to various dietary needs.

Experiment with these ideas, and don’t hesitate to adjust based on your preferences! For different comfort food inspirations, check out my Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups or my delicious Lemon Sugar Cookies recipes!

What to Serve With Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans

The vibrant, tangy flavor of these beans creates a delightful foundation for a well-rounded meal, inviting endless pairing possibilities.

Toasted Sourdough: The crispy crust and soft interior provide the perfect texture to scoop up every creamy bite.
Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty grain adds a hearty dimension, complementing the flavors with its subtle earthiness and texture.
Garlic Roasted Asparagus: The bright crunch brings a fresh contrast, enhancing the dish’s citrusy notes while adding nutritional value.
Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy, couscous absorbs the delicious sauce, creating a truly satisfying experience.
Chickpea Salad: Bright, zesty flavors from tomatoes and cucumbers balance the creaminess, adding freshness to your plate.
Savory Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, mashed potatoes serve as a perfect canvas for the bold lemon garlic flavors.
Crispy Kale Chips: Their crisp texture adds a fun crunch that elevates your dining experience.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc will beautifully enhance the vibrant citrus notes of the dish.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a lemon sorbet will keep the citrus theme alive, acting as a refreshing finish to your meal.

How to Store and Freeze Lemon Garlic Butter Beans

** fridge:** Store leftover Lemon Garlic Butter Beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick meal options.

** freezer:** You can freeze these beans for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container and ensure they’re well sealed to prevent freezer burn.

** reheating:** To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of water. This will help restore the creamy texture that makes this dish delightfully rich.

** storage tip:** Remember not to strain the bean liquid, as it contributes to the dish’s creaminess, ensuring every bite is luscious when stored!

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Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans Recipe FAQs

What kind of shallots should I use?
I recommend using small shallots, as they add a gentle sweetness to the dish. If you can’t find them, yellow onion can be an excellent substitute. Just ensure you finely dice them for optimal flavor blending!

How long can I store Lemon Garlic Butter Beans in the fridge?
These delicious beans can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This makes them a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy them again and again without sacrificing flavor!

Can I freeze Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans?
Absolutely! You can freeze these beans for up to 2 months. To do so, place them in a freezer-safe container, ensuring they’re well sealed to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water.

What if my dish turns out too thick?
If you find your Lemon Garlic Butter Beans are too thick, don’t worry! Simply stir in a splash of vegetable broth or water as you reheat them. This will help restore that creamy texture we all love, making your dish delightful once more.

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Since this recipe features vegan butter and cream cheese, it’s a great option for those who are dairy-free. However, always check the labels for possible allergens, especially if you’re preparing this dish for someone with allergies.

What’s the best way to add extra flavor?
To enhance the flavor of your Lemon Garlic Butter Beans, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick or a drizzle of chili oil just before serving. This will create a beautiful balance with the creaminess while adding an exciting dimension to the dish.