Introduction
Discover the delightful fusion of flavors in this simple yet exquisite dish that brings together the earthiness of butter beans, the freshness of spinach, and the zesty notes of lemon. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying. With a few basic ingredients, you can create a meal that is hearty and filled with vibrant tastes.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Olive oil
– 1 bunch of spring onions
– 1 clove of garlic
– 2 lemons
– 220g baby spinach
– 2 x 400g tins of butter beans
– 2 teaspoons green pesto
– 30g Parmesan cheese
– Extra virgin olive oil
– 4 slices of sourdough bread
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Enjoy a wholesome meal that is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, perfect for any occasion!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Place a large non-stick frying pan on high heat and drizzle in 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Step 2: Chop Ingredients
Trim and roughly chop the spring onions. Peel and finely chop the garlic. Add both to the pan with a pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
Step 3: Add Lemon and Spinach
Finely grate the zest of 1 lemon into the pan, squeeze in the juice of half a lemon, then add the baby spinach. Cook until the spinach has wilted, working in batches if necessary.
Step 4: Chop the Mixture
Tip the cooked mixture onto a board and finely chop it.
Step 5: Cook Butter Beans
Return the pan to the hob, add the butter beans (including their juices), and bring to a boil. Cook for 2 minutes or until the mixture reduces by half, mashing some of the beans with a fork to create a thick, creamy sauce.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the green pesto along with the chopped spinach mixture. Grate most of the Parmesan cheese into the pan.
Step 7: Season the Mixture
Squeeze in the juice of the other half of the lemon and drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil. Taste and season as necessary.
Step 8: Toast the Bread
Toast the sourdough bread slices, then divide them between plates, topping each slice with the butter bean mixture.
Step 9: Finish and Serve
Finely grate the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top, drizzle with a bit of extra virgin olive oil, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.
Notes
Tip: Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh spring onions and baby spinach will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
Tip: Adjust Seasoning
Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your taste preferences; more lemon juice or Parmesan can elevate the dish further.
Tip: Vegan Option
To make this dish vegan, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Tip: Serve Warm
It’s best to serve this dish warm to enjoy the creamy texture of the butter beans and the freshness of the spinach.
Cook techniques
Heat Management
Using a large non-stick frying pan on high heat allows for quick cooking and helps to prevent sticking. Drizzle olive oil into the pan to create a non-stick surface.
Chopping Ingredients
Roughly chop spring onions and finely chop garlic to enhance their aroma and flavor. This ensures an even distribution of taste throughout the dish.
Cooking Spinach
Add spinach in batches to ensure it wilts properly. This technique helps retain its vibrant color and nutrients while preventing overcrowding in the pan.
Mashing Butter Beans
Mash some of the butter beans with a fork while cooking to create a creamy sauce. This adds texture and richness to the dish.
Flavor Balancing
Incorporating lemon juice and zest, along with Parmesan cheese and extra virgin olive oil, helps to balance the flavors and adds acidity, creaminess, and richness.
Toasting Bread
Toast sourdough bread to enhance its flavor and texture, providing an excellent base for the bean mixture.
FAQ
Can I use different beans?
Yes, you can substitute butter beans with other types of beans, such as cannellini or chickpeas, depending on your preference.
What if I don’t have spring onions?
You can use regular onions or shallots as a substitute; just adjust the quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative, and ensure that your pesto is vegan-friendly.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This vibrant dish combines the creamy richness of butter beans with the fresh flavors of spring onions, garlic, and spinach, all elevated by the tang of lemon and the umami of Parmesan. Served on toasted sourdough, it makes for a nutritious and satisfying meal, perfect for any time of the day.
Butter Bean Salad
Mix butter beans with diced tomatoes, cucumber, and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a refreshing salad.
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Pastries
Use the spinach mixture to create delightful pastries, adding crumbled feta for an extra creamy element.
Garlic Lemon Pasta
Toss cooked pasta with sautéed garlic, lemon zest, and a handful of spinach for a quick weeknight meal.
Lemon Herb Hummus
Blend butter beans with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for a smooth and tangy hummus.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
Incorporate the spring onions, garlic, and spinach into a vegetable stir-fry, adding in your choice of protein for a complete dish.
