Description
A vibrant and flavorful Lemony Herb Butter Beans recipe featuring tender butter beans simmered with aromatic spices, garlic, fresh herbs, and a bright lemony finish. Perfect as a warm side dish or a hearty addition to grains or pasta.
Ingredients
Scale
Spices and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon Urfa pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Beans and Liquid
- 2 (15-ounce) cans butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
Fresh Ingredients
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 2 green onions, trimmed and chopped (both white and green parts)
- 1/3 cup roughly chopped parsley
- 1/3 cup roughly chopped dill
Instructions
- Toast the spices and garlic: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the extra-virgin olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add the red pepper flakes, Urfa pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, minced garlic, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Stir continuously until the garlic becomes fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, taking care not to burn it.
- Simmer the butter beans: Add the drained and rinsed butter beans to the skillet, then pour in the vegetable broth. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are heated through and the broth has slightly thickened.
- Finish with fresh lemon and herbs: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, chopped green onions, parsley, and dill. Mix well to incorporate all the flavors. Serve warm as a side dish or over crusty bread, rice, or cooked plain pasta.
Notes
- Urfa pepper adds a slightly smoky and fruity heat; if unavailable, you can omit or substitute with smoked paprika for extra smoky flavor.
- Control the spice level by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference.
- For a protein boost, serve the beans alongside grilled chicken or fish.
- The dish pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or pasta for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
