Butter beans are a versatile, hearty, and delicious addition to any meal. This Mediterranean-inspired butter beans recipe brings out the best in these large, creamy beans by pairing them with spicy, garlicky, lemony, and herbaceous flavors. Whether you are looking for a vegan, gluten-free, or Mediterranean diet-friendly meal, this dish ticks all the boxes.
Packed with nutritional benefits and delivering a satisfying meal in just 15 minutes, this butter beans recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. We use simple pantry ingredients that you likely have on hand, but don’t let the simplicity fool you—this dish is bursting with flavor.
Why Butter Beans?
Butter beans, also known as lima beans, are well-known for their creamy texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor. They are rich in fiber, protein, and important nutrients such as potassium, iron, and magnesium. Butter beans make an excellent base for a variety of recipes, but in this dish, they shine as the star ingredient, soaking up the bold Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients for the Ultimate Butter Beans Recipe
To make this recipe, you only need a handful of simple ingredients. Yet, when combined, they create a dish that is bright, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.
- 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil: Olive oil is essential for giving depth and richness to the dish. It’s used to sauté the garlic and toast the spices.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a bold, robust flavor. The more garlic, the better!
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Provides a kick of heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the beans.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives the dish a subtle smokiness, enhancing the richness of the beans.
- 1/2 teaspoon Urfa pepper (optional): This Turkish spice brings a mild, earthy heat to the dish. If you can’t find Urfa pepper, substitute with Aleppo pepper or simply increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: Season to taste.
- 2 (15-ounce) cans of butter beans, drained and rinsed: These creamy beans are the heart of the dish.
- 1 1/2 cups of vegetable broth: This broth helps to create a silky, flavorful sauce for the beans.
- Juice of 2 lemons: The fresh lemon juice adds a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the beans.
- 2 green onions, trimmed and chopped: Adds a mild, sweet flavor and a bit of crunch.
- 1/3 cup roughly chopped parsley: Provides freshness and a pop of color.
- 1/3 cup roughly chopped dill: Adds a herbaceous Mediterranean flair.
How to Make the Best Butter Beans
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You can have this flavor-packed meal ready in three easy steps, and it only takes 15 minutes to prepare. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.
1. Toast the Seasonings
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil begins to shimmer, add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, cumin, smoked paprika, and Urfa pepper (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper. Stir the spices and garlic constantly to release their aromas, but be careful not to brown the garlic. You want the garlic to turn golden and fragrant, which should take 30 seconds to 1 minute.
This process helps the flavors bloom, ensuring that every bite is packed with aromatic spices and richness.
2. Simmer the Butter Beans
Once the spices are fragrant, it’s time to add the butter beans. Make sure to drain and rinse the beans thoroughly before adding them to the skillet. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. As soon as it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the broth to thicken slightly.
During this time, the butter beans will absorb all the bold flavors of the broth, garlic, and spices, creating a luxurious, silky sauce that coats every bean.
3. Add Freshness and Serve
After simmering, it’s time to add the fresh elements that give this dish its signature Mediterranean flair. Stir in the lemon juice, chopped green onions, parsley, and dill. The herbs bring a vibrant freshness, while the lemon juice adds a zesty tang that balances the rich, creamy butter beans.
