Marinated Butter Beans

Marinated Butter Beans are a delightful blend of creamy butter beans and vibrant vegetables, all tossed in a zesty marinade. This dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings. With its protein and fiber-rich ingredients, it stands out as both healthy and flavorful. Enjoy it as a side dish or a light main course!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With minimal cooking time, these marinated butter beans come together in just 45 minutes.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and spices creates a deliciously tangy marinade that enhances the creamy texture of the beans.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this dish on its own, spread on toasted sourdough, or as a part of a larger meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this recipe is not just tasty but also nutritious.
• Make Ahead Friendly: The flavors deepen over time, making it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

To make Marinated Butter Beans, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the ingredients evenly, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Saucepan: Used for heating the marinade, creating an aromatic base that enhances the dish.
• Whisk: Helps emulsify the marinade ingredients seamlessly for better flavor distribution.

Ingredients

Think creamy butter beans, paired with pickled red onions, olives, roasted red peppers, and artichoke hearts, tossed in a spicy olive and lemon marinade. Like, what more could you want? Plus, this dish is high in both protein and fiber!

For the Butter Beans Mixture

• 1 can (about 14 oz or 400 g) butter beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup (about 20) green olives, roughly chopped
• 1 jarred roasted red pepper, roughly chopped
• 6-7 jarred artichoke hearts, halved
• 1/2 cup fresh dill, minced and loosely packed
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, minced and loosely packed
• 1 lemon’s worth of zest
• 1 tsp kosher salt, plus more as needed

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/4 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

How to Make Marinated Butter Beans

Step 1: Prepare the Butter Bean Mixture

1. In a large serving bowl, add the butter beans, sliced red onion, chopped olives, roasted red pepper, artichoke hearts, dill, parsley, lemon zest, and kosher salt. Mix gently to combine.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine lemon juice, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, red pepper flakes, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
2. Whisk occasionally until the mixture begins to froth and bubble; then remove from heat.

Step 3: Combine Everything Together

1. Pour the hot marinade over the butter bean mixture in the serving bowl.
2. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure even coating.

Step 4: Let It Rest Before Serving

1. Allow your marinated butter beans to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving; ideally let them rest for up to 30 minutes to enhance flavor.

Enjoy this dish on toasted sourdough or simply on its own! Store any leftovers in an airtight glass container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

How to Serve Marinated Butter Beans

Marinated butter beans are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a light meal or a hearty side dish, these beans can elevate your dining experience.

On Toast

• Toasted Sourdough: Serve marinated butter beans on crispy toasted sourdough for a delicious appetizer or light lunch. The crunch of the bread complements the creaminess of the beans.

As a Salad

• Bean Salad: Mix marinated butter beans with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a refreshing salad. This adds crunch and freshness while enhancing the flavors.

As a Dip

• Mediterranean Dip: Use marinated butter beans as a dip alongside pita chips or vegetable sticks. The rich flavors make for an excellent snack option.

In Wraps

• Veggie Wraps: Fill whole grain wraps with marinated butter beans, mixed greens, and sliced avocado for a filling meal that’s easy to grab on the go.

Pasta Topping

• Pasta Dish: Toss marinated butter beans with cooked pasta for an easy weeknight dinner. Add some grated cheese or nutritional yeast for extra flavor.

With Grains

• Grain Bowl: Serve over quinoa or brown rice, topped with your favorite vegetables and seeds. This creates a wholesome meal packed with protein and fiber.

How to Perfect Marinated Butter Beans

Creating the perfect marinated butter beans requires attention to detail and fresh ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh dill and parsley to enhance the flavor profile. Fresh herbs add brightness that dried herbs cannot replicate.
• Let It Rest: Allow marinated butter beans to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt or acidity as needed. Each ingredient contributes to the overall flavor, so balancing them is key.
• Experiment with Marinades: Try adding different spices or vinegars based on your preference. This allows you to customize the dish to suit various tastes.
• Serve Chilled: For a refreshing twist, chill your marinated butter beans in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.
• Use Quality Olive Oil: Choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil for dressing; it enhances both flavor and health benefits.

Best Side Dishes for Marinated Butter Beans

Marinated butter beans pair wonderfully with various sides that complement their rich flavor and creamy texture. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus lightly seasoned and grilled until tender adds a smoky touch.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that balances well with the creaminess of the beans.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette offers freshness that contrasts nicely with the marinated beans.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made from shredded cabbage and carrots adds crunch and brightness to your meal.
5. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread pairs beautifully with marinated butter beans for dipping; it’s comforting and satisfying.
6. Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with raisins and nuts brings sweetness and texture that complements the dish well.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa create a colorful side that is both nutritious and filling.
8. Mixed Greens Salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed in vinaigrette provides freshness without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making marinated butter beans, it’s easy to overlook some crucial steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the soaking: Not allowing the beans to marinate long enough can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least 10 minutes, but 30 minutes is even better for optimal taste.
• Ignoring freshness: Using wilted herbs or stale ingredients can dampen the dish’s flavor. Always choose fresh herbs, especially dill and parsley, for a vibrant taste.
• Over-seasoning: Adding too much salt or spice can overpower the other flavors. Start with less seasoning and adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Not balancing acidity: If you don’t add enough lemon juice or vinegar, the dish may lack brightness. Be sure to add enough acidity to enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Forgetting about textures: Including only soft ingredients can make the dish monotonous. Add crunchy elements like fresh vegetables or nuts for a delightful contrast.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight glass container.
• Keeps well for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Marinated Butter Beans

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating Marinated Butter Beans

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a pan, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding marinated butter beans.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Marinated Butter Beans?

To boost flavor, consider adding more herbs or spices such as cumin or cayenne pepper. Fresh lemon zest also adds a bright note.

Can I use dried butter beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you’ll need to soak and cook them before marinating. This process takes longer but can yield an even better texture.

What can I serve with Marinated Butter Beans?

Marinated butter beans pair well with toasted sourdough, salads, or as a side dish with grilled meats or vegetables.

How long will my Marinated Butter Beans last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to 5 days in the fridge and 3 months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

Marinated butter beans are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spices according to your taste. Whether served as a salad or on toasted bread, this dish is sure to impress!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Marinated Butter Beans

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately four servings 1x

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Description

Marinated Butter Beans are a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines creamy butter beans with colorful vegetables, all enveloped in a zesty marinade. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether served as a side dish or a light main course. Packed with protein and fiber, it offers a delightful taste experience with every bite. The combination of fresh herbs and tangy lemon creates a flavor explosion that elevates the creamy texture of the beans. Ideal for meal prep or entertaining, these marinated butter beans can be enjoyed on toasted sourdough, as part of a salad, or even as a dip.

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Ingredients

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• 1 can (about 14 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup green olives, roughly chopped
• 1 jarred roasted red pepper, roughly chopped
• 6–7 jarred artichoke hearts, halved
• 1/2 cup fresh dill, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/4 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the butter beans, red onion, olives, roasted red pepper, artichoke hearts, dill, parsley, lemon zest, and salt. Mix gently.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine lemon juice, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), garlic, red pepper flakes, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until the mixture bubbles; remove from heat.
3. Pour the hot marinade over the bean mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Allow to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving for optimal flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Side
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 0mg