There is something truly delightful about the simplicity and brightness of the Butter Beans with Ricotta & Lemon Basil Pesto Recipe. This dish brings together creamy ricotta, tender butter beans, and the fresh zing of lemon basil pesto for a Mediterranean-inspired treat that is as comforting as it is vibrant. It’s perfect for a light lunch, an impressive side, or even a satisfying vegetarian main. Each bite bursts with creamy textures and lively herbaceous flavors that make this recipe a favorite to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe comes together with just a handful of ingredients, each one playing a vital role in creating a dish that’s rich in flavor without complicating your prep. The combination of fresh basil, creamy ricotta, citrus notes from the lemon, and hearty butter beans makes every spoonful a pleasure.
- 2 cups cooked or canned butter beans: The tender, buttery beans provide a soft, protein-packed base with a satisfying texture.
- 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese: Adds luscious creaminess and a mild, milky tang that balances the pesto perfectly.
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves: Fresh basil infuses the pesto with its signature bright, aromatic flavor.
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts or walnuts: These add a subtle crunch and a nutty depth to the pesto.
- 1 clove garlic: Gives the pesto a gentle but essential pungent kick.
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese: For that savory umami boost that makes the pesto irresistible.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brings a refreshing citrusy brightness that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Intensifies the lemon flavor with a fragrant, fresh note.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Smooths the pesto into a luscious sauce and enhances every ingredient’s flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- Extra basil and lemon zest for garnish (optional): These add a final colorful flourish and fresh aroma when serving.
How to Make Butter Beans with Ricotta & Lemon Basil Pesto Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Basil Pesto
Start by adding the fresh basil, toasted pine nuts (or walnuts if you prefer), garlic clove, grated Parmesan, lemon juice, and lemon zest to a food processor. Pulse these together until they form a finely chopped mix. Then, while the processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil to emulsify the pesto into a smooth, creamy sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper. This fresh, vibrant pesto is the heart of the dish and packs in all the flavor.
Step 2: Combine the Butter Beans with Pesto
Place your drained and rinsed butter beans into a large bowl. Spoon in a few generous dollops of the lemon basil pesto and gently toss the beans until they are evenly coated. The pesto will cling beautifully to the beans, infusing them with aromatic herb and citrus notes.
Step 3: Add the Ricotta
For a lovely creaminess that contrasts the pesto-coated beans, gently fold in the ricotta cheese. You can stir it through for a consistent creaminess throughout the dish, or, if you prefer a bit of texture play, dollop the ricotta on top just before serving. Either way, this step transforms the dish into a luxuriously smooth and indulgent experience.
Step 4: Serve the Dish
You can serve the Butter Beans with Ricotta & Lemon Basil Pesto Recipe warm, right after tossing, or let it come to room temperature—both work beautifully. Add a little extra pesto, lemon zest, or fresh basil leaves on top to create a bright, inviting plate every time.
How to Serve Butter Beans with Ricotta & Lemon Basil Pesto Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes is a wonderful finishing touch. A sprinkle of lemon zest and extra basil leaves brighten the look and taste. A light drizzle of olive oil or a few toasted nuts sprinkled on top add both a sheen and texture contrast that makes each bite interesting and lovely to the eye.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines as a versatile partner alongside many dishes. Crusty artisan bread is a natural choice that soaks up the luscious pesto and ricotta. It also pairs beautifully with simple grilled vegetables or a crisp green salad, making for a balanced and colorful meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this dish in individual small bowls or pretty glass jars for a modern, elegant presentation. For a party, spoon the beans onto crostini or golden toasted pita rounds to create delightful finger-friendly bites. The contrast between the creamy ricotta and herby pesto makes it a star in food spreads and buffets.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Butter Beans with Ricotta & Lemon Basil Pesto Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the ricotta mixed in might cause it to thicken slightly, but flavors deepen wonderfully overnight, so leftovers taste fantastic.
Freezing
It’s best not to freeze this dish because the ricotta and fresh pesto can separate and lose their texture. Instead, freeze leftover butter beans and pesto separately if needed, then combine fresh ricotta when you’re ready to serve.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the dish in a low oven or covered skillet, adding a small splash of water or olive oil to keep the beans moist. Avoid high heat to preserve the fresh, bright flavors of the lemon pesto and prevent the ricotta from curdling.
FAQs
Can I use dried butter beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just soak and cook dried butter beans according to package instructions before using them. Homemade cooked beans will add a nicer texture and a richer flavor to your dish.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
While this Butter Beans with Ricotta & Lemon Basil Pesto Recipe includes ricotta and Parmesan, you can substitute vegan cheese alternatives and use nutritional yeast to replicate the cheesy flavor for a dairy-free version.
Can I prepare the pesto in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the lemon basil pesto a day ahead and store it in a sealed container in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before tossing with the beans, and it will be just as fresh and tasty.
What can I substitute for pine nuts?
Walnuts or almonds are great alternatives that provide a similar nutty flavor and texture. Toasting them first amps up the aroma and richness of the pesto.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto or a dash of cayenne pepper to the beans for a subtle heat that balances the creaminess and fresh citrus flavors perfectly.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the joy that comes from making and sharing the Butter Beans with Ricotta & Lemon Basil Pesto Recipe. Its simplicity combined with layers of bright, creamy, and nutty flavors makes it one of those dishes that quickly becomes a favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a stunning side dish, this recipe promises to bring warmth, color, and a touch of Mediterranean sunshine to your plate. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to comfort food!
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Butter Beans with Ricotta & Lemon Basil Pesto Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
A fresh and vibrant Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring creamy butter beans tossed in a zesty lemon basil pesto, complemented by smooth ricotta cheese. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or vegetarian main course, this no-cook recipe is quick to prepare and packed with flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
Butter Beans
- 2 cups cooked or canned butter beans (drained and rinsed)
Ricotta & Pesto
- 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts or walnuts
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish (optional)
- Extra basil leaves
- Extra lemon zest
Instructions
- Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts or walnuts, garlic clove, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Pulse the ingredients until they are finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly add the olive oil in a steady stream until the pesto reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine with Butter Beans: In a mixing bowl, gently toss the cooked or canned butter beans with a few spoonfuls of the lemon basil pesto until they are evenly coated. Be careful to coat the beans without mashing them to keep their texture intact.
- Add Ricotta Cheese: Fold the ricotta cheese gently into the pesto-coated butter beans to incorporate creaminess. Alternatively, for a contrast in texture and taste, dollop the ricotta on top just before serving instead of mixing it in.
- Serve: Serve the butter beans with ricotta and lemon basil pesto warm or at room temperature. Garnish with extra basil leaves and lemon zest if desired to enhance the dish’s freshness and presentation.
Notes
- This dish works wonderfully as a side, light lunch, or vegetarian main course when accompanied by crusty bread.
- You can use canned butter beans for convenience or cook them yourself from dried beans for improved texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Main Course
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
