Lemon, Basil Pesto, and Ricotta Butter Beans
Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with something fresh and vibrant? This warm Butter Bean recipe with ricotta and lemon-wild garlic pesto is a Mediterranean dream.
Creamy butter beans meet a zesty pesto for a hearty yet refreshing dish that’s perfect for family dinners or a solo indulgence.
• Butter Beans: High in fiber and plant-based protein, promoting digestion and satiety while supporting muscle health.
• Ricotta: Rich in calcium and protein, aiding in bone health and muscle maintenance.
• Lemon: Loaded with vitamin C, it boosts immunity and aids in digestion.
• Wild Garlic: Contains antioxidants and compounds that support heart health and reduce inflammation.
• Olive Oil: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats for heart health and vitamin E.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups cooked butter beans (or use canned, drained, and rinsed)
• 1/2 cup fresh ricotta cheese
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 bunch wild garlic (or substitute with spinach or basil)
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (toasted)
• Salt and pepper to taste
How To:
1. Make the Pesto: Blend wild garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
2. Warm the Butter Beans: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a pan and gently warm the butter beans.
3. Bring it All Together: Toss the warmed beans in the pesto, top with dollops of ricotta, and sprinkle lemon zest on top.
4. Serve & Enjoy: Serve it warm, and feel free to add an extra drizzle of olive oil for that Mediterranean touch!
