Marinated Butter Beans

Marinated Butter Beans are a delightful dish that combines creamy beans with zesty flavors. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of pickled red onions, olives, roasted red peppers, and artichoke hearts tossed in a spicy olive and lemon marinade makes this dish stand out. Not only is it flavorful, but it’s also packed with protein and fiber!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Marinated Butter Beans
• For the Marinade
• How to Make Marinated Butter Beans
• Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
• Step 2: Make the Marinade
• Step 3: Combine Everything
• Step 4: Let It Rest
• Step 5: Serve
• How to Serve Marinated Butter Beans
• On Toast
• As a Salad
• With Grains
• As a Dip
• In Wraps
• How to Perfect Marinated Butter Beans
• Best Side Dishes for Marinated Butter Beans
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Marinated Butter Beans
• Reheating Marinated Butter Beans
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What are Marinated Butter Beans?
• How do I customize my Marinated Butter Beans?
• Can I use canned butter beans?
• How long should I let Marinated Butter Beans sit before serving?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of butter beans, fresh herbs, and a tangy marinade creates a taste that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
• Versatile Dish: Serve Marinated Butter Beans as a side, on toasted sourdough, or as a light main course; the options are endless!
• Health Benefits: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish will keep you full and energized throughout the day.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to five days—ideal for healthy lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Marinated Butter Beans, gather all essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large serving bowl
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large serving bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all ingredients easily without spilling.
• Saucepan: Essential for heating the marinade to bring out its flavors.
• Whisk: Helps combine the marinade ingredients smoothly without lumps.

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 Marinated Butter Beans

• 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

For the Marinade

• 1 lemon’s worth of zest
• 1 tsp kosher salt, plus more as needed
• 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 Ingredients

Add the butter beans, sliced red onion, chopped olives, roasted red pepper, artichokes, dill, parsley, lemon zest, and salt into a large serving bowl. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

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

Step 3: Combine Everything

Pour the hot marinade over the bowl of ingredients. Toss gently to combine everything well.

Step 4: Let It Rest

Allow the marinated beans to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving—30 minutes is ideal for enhanced flavor.

Step 5: Serve

Enjoy your Marinated Butter Beans on toasted sourdough or just by themselves. Store leftovers in an airtight glass container in the fridge for up to five days.

How to Serve Marinated Butter Beans

Marinated butter beans are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their creamy texture and bold flavors make them perfect for pairing with different meals or enjoying on their own.

On Toast

• Serve the marinated butter beans on toasted sourdough for a crunchy contrast. The bread absorbs some of the marinade, enhancing the flavor.

As a Salad

• Toss them into a green salad. The beans add protein and creaminess, making your salad more filling and nutritious.

With Grains

• Pair with quinoa or couscous for a hearty meal. The grains soak up the marinade, creating a deliciously cohesive dish.

As a Dip

• Use as a dip with pita chips or veggies. This makes for an excellent snack or appetizer at gatherings.

In Wraps

• Add to wraps with fresh veggies and hummus. This combination creates a delightful, healthy lunch option.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Marinated Butter Beans

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your marinated butter beans, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh dill and parsley elevate the dish, adding vibrant flavors that dried herbs can’t match.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt or spice levels as needed to suit your preference.

• Let them marinate: Allow the beans to sit for at least 10 minutes; letting them sit longer enhances absorption of flavors.

• Experiment with citrus: Try adding lime juice or zest for a different citrus twist that complements the beans beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Marinated Butter Beans

Marinated butter beans pair well with various side dishes that balance their rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Veggies: Seasonal vegetables grilled until tender provide a smoky flavor that complements the beans nicely.

2. Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf adds heartiness and can absorb any excess marinade from the beans.

3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes serve as a satisfying contrast to the soft texture of marinated butter beans.

4. Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the beans.

5. Pasta Primavera: A colorful pasta dish loaded with veggies pairs well, making it a filling meal when served alongside marinated butter beans.

6. Feta Cheese Crumbles: Sprinkling feta cheese over your dish brings in salty notes that elevate both taste and presentation.

7. Stuffed Peppers: Fill peppers with quinoa, spices, and cheese for an additional layer of flavor that pairs well with butter beans.

8. Whole Grain Bread: Slices of whole grain bread can be served on the side for dipping in any leftover marinade or enjoying plain.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the Drainage: Not draining the butter beans properly can lead to a watery dish. Always drain and rinse your beans to enhance flavor and texture.
• Over-marinating: Leaving the beans in the marinade for too long can make them overly salty. Aim for 10-30 minutes to achieve the best flavor balance.
• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can diminish taste. Fresh dill and parsley add vibrancy, so use them when possible.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in bland beans. Always check before serving; a pinch of salt or squeeze of lemon may be necessary.
• Using Low-Quality Olive Oil: The quality of olive oil affects the overall taste. Invest in good extra virgin olive oil for the best results.

PIN THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store marinated butter beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will last for up to 5 days, maintaining their flavors.

Freezing Marinated Butter Beans

• Place marinated butter beans in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure they are well-sealed.

Reheating Marinated Butter Beans

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place beans in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer beans to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat beans over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about marinated butter beans:

What are Marinated Butter Beans?

Marinated butter beans are creamy beans tossed in a flavorful marinade made with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices. They are delicious as a side or on toast.

How do I customize my Marinated Butter Beans?

You can add other ingredients like feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, or different herbs according to your taste preferences for added flavor.

Can I use canned butter beans?

Yes! Canned butter beans are perfect for this recipe. Just remember to drain and rinse them before mixing with other ingredients.

How long should I let Marinated Butter Beans sit before serving?

For the best flavor, let them marinate for at least 10 minutes; however, letting them sit for up to 30 minutes is ideal.

Final Thoughts

Marinated butter beans offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make them a great addition to any meal. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various ingredients based on your preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy a nutritious dish packed with protein and fiber!