Creamy White Beans with Parmesan and Lemon

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Introduction

Lusciously creamy white beans come alive with the richness of Parmesan and a bright, zesty lemon twist. This dish is quick, comforting, and perfect as a side or main course, showcasing simple ingredients transformed into an irresistible flavor-packed creation.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant but not browned.
  2. Stir in the drained white beans, cooking for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
  4. Mix in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
  5. Add the lemon zest and juice, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Variations

  1. Make it Vegan-Friendly
    Replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for a creamy texture. Substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan cheese to add a cheesy flavor without dairy. This variation keeps the dish plant-based while maintaining its richness and tang.
  2. Add Protein
    Include cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a heartier meal. Stir these into the sauce during the final step, ensuring they’re evenly coated and warmed through.
  3. Spice It Up
    Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper while sautéing the garlic to give the dish a subtle heat that balances the creamy and zesty flavors.

Cooking Notes

  1. For a vegan option, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
  2. Serve alongside crusty bread or as a topping for roasted vegetables for a heartier meal.
  3. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Serving Suggestions

  1. As a Side Dish
    Serve alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish to complement the creamy and citrusy flavors. The beans pair beautifully with savory, herbaceous proteins.
  2. Over Toasted Bread
    Spoon the creamy beans over slices of toasted sourdough or crusty baguette for a hearty and satisfying appetizer or light meal.
  3. Topping for Vegetables
    Use the creamy beans as a topping for roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or carrots. The beans’ rich flavor elevates simple vegetables into a gourmet side dish.

Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients
    Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and parsley elevate the dish with their vibrant flavors. Avoid substituting with pre-minced garlic or bottled lemon juice for the best results.
  2. Don’t Skip the Garnish
    Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh finish. Sprinkle generously just before serving to brighten the dish visually and flavorfully.
  3. Taste and Adjust
    Always taste the sauce before serving. Add a pinch of salt, extra lemon juice, or more Parmesan to ensure a perfectly balanced flavor that’s tailored to your preference.

Prep Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Protein: 11g
  • Sodium: 520mg

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?
    Absolutely! If you prefer dried beans, soak them overnight and cook until tender before using. This adds a bit of extra prep time but enhances the flavor and texture of the dish.
  2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    Yes, the creamy white beans can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
  3. What other cheeses can I use besides Parmesan?
    Pecorino Romano or Asiago can be excellent substitutes for Parmesan, offering similar savory and nutty flavors. Use what you have on hand for convenience.
  4. Is this dish freezer-friendly?
    While the beans themselves freeze well, the creamy sauce may separate when thawed. If freezing, do so before adding the cream and Parmesan. Add these ingredients fresh when reheating for the best texture.

Conclusion

Creamy White Beans with Parmesan and Lemon is a comforting yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a side dish, a hearty main, or a topping for crusty bread, the balance of rich creaminess, zesty lemon, and savory Parmesan is sure to impress. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and delicious—an easy way to bring gourmet flavors to your table.

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Creamy White Beans with Parmesan and Lemon

  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

Lusciously creamy white beans come alive with the richness of Parmesan and a bright, zesty lemon twist. This dish is quick, comforting, and perfect as a side or main course, showcasing simple ingredients transformed into an irresistible flavor-packed creation.

 

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant but not browned.
  • Stir in the drained white beans, cooking for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
  • Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
  • Mix in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
  • Add the lemon zest and juice, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

  • For a vegan option, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
  • Serve alongside crusty bread or as a topping for roasted vegetables for a heartier meal.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 11g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Creamy white beans, Parmesan white beans, lemon white beans

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