Butter Beans with Ricotta, Lemon + Basil Pesto

Introduction

After trying this recipe for Butter Beans with Ricotta, Lemon + Basil Pesto, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy and versatile it turned out. It’s one of those dishes that can be enjoyed all year round, whether you’re serving it warm on a chilly evening or as a refreshing cold dish during the summer months. The combination of creamy butter beans, zesty lemon, fragrant basil pesto, and smooth ricotta creates a burst of flavors that is both comforting and bright. My family absolutely loved it, and I found it to be a hit at both casual weeknight dinners and when entertaining guests. It’s so simple to prepare but looks and tastes impressive, making it perfect for a quick meal or a side dish to accompany any main course.

Why You’ll Love This Butter Beans with Ricotta, Lemon + Basil Pesto

This dish has a lot going for it. First, it’s incredibly simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Butter beans, which are soft, creamy, and slightly nutty, are the perfect base for this dish. The basil pesto, with its vibrant green color and aromatic flavor, complements the beans beautifully. The ricotta adds richness and a creamy texture that balances the zesty pesto and lemon. Plus, the dish is highly customizable—serve it hot or cold depending on the weather and your mood. It’s also vegetarian and can easily be made vegan with a few simple swaps.

Ingredients

For the Pesto:

• 1 large bunch of fresh basil (roughly 15g)
• A handful of toasted pine nuts
• 1 garlic clove, crushed (or a small bunch of wild garlic if in season)
• 25g Parmesan cheese, grated (or vegan alternative)
• 4–5 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra to serve

For the Butter Beans:

• 1 jar of butter beans (drain half the liquid)
• 250g ricotta cheese (or vegan alternative)
• 1 lemon, zest and juice

Serving Suggestions:

• Crusty bread

Instructions

Make the Basil Pesto:

1. Begin by adding toasted pine nuts, fresh basil, crushed garlic (or wild garlic), Parmesan cheese, and olive oil to a blender or food processor.
2. Blitz the mixture until it reaches a smooth, pesto-like consistency. If needed, add more olive oil to help bind the ingredients together. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary (you may want a little extra salt or lemon juice).
3. Set the pesto aside.

Prepare the Butter Beans:

Hot Option:

1. Drain half the liquid from the jar of butter beans.
2. Pour the beans and remaining liquid into a frying pan.
3. Warm the mixture over low heat until the beans are heated through, stirring occasionally.

Cold Option:

1. Drain the butter beans as instructed.
2. Serve the beans directly without heating for a refreshing, cold dish.

Assemble the Dish:

1. Spoon the butter beans onto a large serving platter.
2. Dollop generous spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the beans.
3. Drizzle the basil pesto generously over the top.
4. Grate fresh lemon zest and drizzle lemon juice over the dish.
5. Finish with a crack of black pepper and a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and calories per serving)

• Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/4 of the total recipe)
• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 23g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Calcium: 15% of the daily value
• Iron: 10% of the daily value

Note: The nutritional information can vary depending on the type of ricotta or vegan substitute used and the specific ingredients selected.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 5 minutes
• Total time: 15 minutes

How to Serve

This dish is perfect for any meal, whether served hot or cold. Here are a few suggestions for how to enjoy it:

• As a light lunch or dinner: Serve the butter beans with pesto and ricotta as a main dish. Pair with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
• As a side dish: Serve this dish alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
• As a picnic option: Since it can be served cold, this dish is ideal for a picnic or a packed lunch.
• As a snack: Spoon it onto crackers or crostini for a quick snack.
• For meal prep: Make a big batch and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. It tastes just as good cold the next day!

Additional Tips

1. Customize the Pesto: Swap pine nuts for other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.
2. Vegan Version: Use a plant-based ricotta and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative to make this dish vegan.
3. Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers to the beans for extra color and nutrients.
4. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for a bit of heat.
5. Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch of this dish and refrigerate it for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use canned butter beans instead of jarred? Yes, canned butter beans work just as well! Just drain and rinse them before using.
2. Can I make the pesto ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the pesto in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
3. How can I make the dish more filling? Add some cooked quinoa or brown rice to the butter beans to make it a heartier meal.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free alternative for the bread or crackers.
5. Can I substitute ricotta with another cheese? Yes, you can use cream cheese, goat cheese, or a vegan cheese alternative.
6. How long does this dish last in the fridge? This dish will keep for 2-3 days in the fridge when stored properly.
7. Can I serve this dish warm in winter? Yes, this dish is just as delicious when served warm! Simply heat the butter beans before serving.
8. Can I freeze leftovers? While the pesto can be frozen, the ricotta may not hold up well after freezing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
9. Can I add more protein to this dish? Yes, you can add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu to make it a more protein-rich meal.
10. What other herbs can I use in the pesto? You can experiment with mint, parsley, or even arugula for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the proportions to taste.

This Butter Beans with Ricotta, Lemon + Basil Pesto recipe is not only delicious but also highly adaptable. Whether you prefer it hot or cold, it’s a fantastic option for any meal of the day. Try it out and enjoy the vibrant flavors and creamy textures that make it a go-to dish in any season.

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