Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans

Name: Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Plant-Based
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, including the liquid); ¼ cup vegan cream cheese; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; ½ tablespoon lemon zest (zest of 1 lemon); 3 cups spinach; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Marry

Published:

December 15, 2025

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Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans bring a burst of flavor to your table while keeping things simple and delicious. Imagine a dish that’s comforting, creamy, and meets the needs of various diets all at once. That’s exactly what you get with these butter beans. They not only deliver a satisfying mouthfeel but also show that plant-based meals can be full of rich flavors. Whether you are a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and promisingly rewarding. Plus, it’s ready in about 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you still want a home-cooked meal. Gather your ingredients, put on some music, and let’s get cooking!

Why This Recipe Works

Butter beans, with their naturally creamy texture, provide a hearty base without any dairy. Instead of regular butter, we use vegan butter, which, when combined with vegan cream cheese, creates a rich, satisfying mix. The addition of fresh garlic and a good splash of lemon juice balances the flavors beautifully. Think of this dish as both a comfort food and an interesting exploration of flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans

You’ll adore how simple it is to whip up Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans in just 20 minutes. This makes it a great choice for busy evenings or even a leisurely brunch. It’s vegan and gluten-free too, making it friendly for various diets. But the best part? It’s comforting and indulgent while still being packed with nutrition. You can enjoy this dish and feel good about what you’re eating.

Ingredients

To make this dish, you’ll need:
– 2 small shallots, diced (or 1 large)
– 4-5 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 3 tablespoons vegan butter
– 30 ounces canned butter beans (2 cans, including the liquid)
– ¼ cup vegan cream cheese
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– ½ tablespoon lemon zest (zest of 1 lemon)
– 3 cups spinach
– Salt and pepper to taste (recommend at least ½ teaspoon pepper)

Preparing the Shallots and Garlic

Dice and Mince

Begin by finely dicing the shallots. A sharp knife will make this easy! Next, mince the garlic. If you have a garlic press, now’s the time to use it—it saves time and effort.

Melting the Vegan Butter

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. As it sizzles, toss in the diced shallots along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until they turn fragrant and slightly golden. This step lays the foundation for all the lovely flavors to come!

Adding the Butter Beans

Simmer the Base

Carefully pour in the two cans of butter beans without draining them. Don’t toss out that liquid; it’s key to achieving the creamy consistency you’re aiming for. Stir everything together and let your mixture come to a simmer.

Mixing in Creamy Elements

Incorporate Vegan Cream Cheese

After simmering for about 5 minutes, it’s time to stir in the vegan cream cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until everything is fully blended and let it simmer for another 2 minutes. You’ll notice the mixture thickening into a dreamy consistency.

Adding Spinach

Wilt the Greens

Turn off the heat and fold in the spinach. This will wilt quickly, adding not just nutrition but also a beautiful pop of color to your dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste, making sure to sample as you go!

Serving Suggestions

Serve the creamy lemon garlic butter beans warm, and for an extra treat, consider pairing it with a generous slice of crusty toasted bread. It’s a filling meal that also works well as a side for other dishes.

Tips for Success

Make sure to include the liquid from the canned butter beans, as this is what gives you that creamy texture.
Taste as you cook, adjusting the seasoning to suit your palate.
Fresh lemon juice and zest are a must for the best flavor—don’t skip this!

Variations

If you want to switch things up, try substituting the spinach with kale or Swiss chard for different textures. For those who love a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. You can also explore using other types of beans like cannellini for a distinct taste.

Pairing Ideas

This creamy dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. You could also serve it alongside quinoa or rice to round out your meal. For a touch of elegance, savor it with a chilled white wine.

FAQs

What are butter beans?
Butter beans are large, creamy white beans, also called lima beans, frequently used in soups and stews.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare it ahead and simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients listed are free from gluten, making it safe for those on gluten-free diets.

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of vegan?
If vegan isn’t your preference, feel free to swap in regular cream cheese.

How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans is a dish that combines creamy textures with zesty flavors. It’s not just easy to make—it checks all the boxes for a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy. So gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this amazing recipe!

Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Beans

Ingredients