If you are searching for a dish that is as comforting as it is vibrant, allow me to introduce you to the delightful Butter Beans with Ricotta, Lemon + Basil Pesto Recipe. This Mediterranean-inspired gem brings together creamy butter beans and luscious ricotta cheese, perfectly brightened by fresh lemon zest and juice. The basil pesto adds an aromatic herbal flair that sings in every bite, making this a versatile dish you’ll want to enjoy for lunch or dinner, warm or chilled. Whether you are craving a satisfying vegetarian main or an elegant side, this recipe offers simple ingredients with a depth of flavor that feels anything but ordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in the Butter Beans with Ricotta, Lemon + Basil Pesto Recipe plays a vital role, creating a harmonious blend of creamy, tangy, and herbaceous notes. From the tender butter beans to the zesty lemon and vibrant basil pesto, each component is essential to achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- Butter Beans: Use canned for convenience, rinsed and drained to keep the dish light and ready in minutes.
- Ricotta Cheese: Whole milk ricotta brings a smooth, creamy texture that envelopes the beans beautifully.
- Lemon Zest and Juice: Adds fresh brightness and a subtle acidity that lifts the richness of the dish.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
- Basil Pesto: Either homemade or store-bought, pesto provides an herby, garlicky punch with a beautiful green color.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle for richness and a silky finish.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for a salty, nutty topping that ties everything together.
- Fresh Basil Leaves (optional): For garnish, adding a burst of freshness and visual appeal.
How to Make Butter Beans with Ricotta, Lemon + Basil Pesto Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Butter Bean Mixture
Start by placing your drained and rinsed butter beans into a large bowl. Add the creamy ricotta cheese, fresh lemon zest, and juice. This combination forms the heart of the dish—each butter bean coated with luscious ricotta and brightened by lemon’s citrus notes. Season everything with a touch of salt and freshly ground black pepper, then gently mix to combine. Be careful not to mash the beans; you want to keep some texture while ensuring every bite holds that creamy, tangy goodness.
Step 2: Warm the Basil Pesto
Next, gently warm the basil pesto in a small saucepan over low heat. You only want to warm it through to help release those wonderful herb aromas and make it easier to fold into the bean mixture. Warming the pesto slightly also adds a lovely silky texture that complements the cold ricotta and tender beans.
Step 3: Combine and Finish
Drizzle the warmed pesto over the butter bean and ricotta mixture. Using a spatula or spoon, carefully fold the pesto in, allowing swirls of green pesto to remain visible for a beautiful presentation. Finish by drizzling extra-virgin olive oil over the top, followed by a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan. This last layer brings a burst of rich, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the fresh and creamy base.
How to Serve Butter Beans with Ricotta, Lemon + Basil Pesto Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are a wonderful garnish, adding a bright herbal note and a pop of color that makes this dish feel special. For extra texture and flavor, toasted pine nuts or a handful of crusty breadcrumbs scattered on top make a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy beans and ricotta.
Side Dishes
This dish shines as a standout vegetarian main or pairs beautifully alongside grilled vegetables, crusty bread, or a simple green salad. Its Mediterranean flair makes it a perfect companion for dishes like roasted eggplant, cherry tomato salads, or even alongside grilled fish for a light, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Butter Beans with Ricotta, Lemon + Basil Pesto Recipe in individual bowls or as a vibrant salad on a rustic wooden platter. You can also stuff it into pita pockets or spread it thickly over crostini for a fabulous appetizer. The colorful swirls of pesto and fresh lemon zest make it visually inviting no matter how you choose to present it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Butter Beans with Ricotta, Lemon + Basil Pesto Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen as they sit, making for an even tastier dish the next day. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to reintegrate the pesto and redistribute the ricotta.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated as the texture of the ricotta can change when frozen. If you want to freeze components separately, store the butter beans and pesto independently in freezer-safe containers, then combine when ready to serve for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
If you prefer to serve it warm, gently reheat the leftovers in a saucepan over low heat while stirring to prevent the ricotta from curdling. For a chilled serving, simply allow leftovers to come to room temperature before indulging. Either way, the flavors will remain fresh and inviting.
FAQs
Can I use fresh butter beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you have fresh butter beans, blanching and peeling them before adding to the dish will enhance the freshness. Just remember fresh beans require more prep time, so plan accordingly.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Since it includes ricotta and Parmesan cheese, this recipe is not vegan. However, you can swap the ricotta with a plant-based cheese and use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan alternatives to keep it plant-powered and delicious.
Can I make the basil pesto from scratch?
Yes! Homemade basil pesto is fantastic in this recipe and adds a personal touch. Blend fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper for a vibrant, fresh batch every time.
How can I make this dish more filling?
Adding toasted pine nuts or mixing in some sautéed greens like spinach or kale can boost the texture and nutrition. Serving with crusty bread or alongside a grain like farro can also make it a heartier meal.
Is it better served warm or cold?
This dish is a joy whether served warm, at room temperature, or chilled. For a picnic or light lunch, enjoying it cold is refreshing. Warm serving enhances the aroma of the pesto and cheese, perfect for cozy dinners.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly delightful about the combination of butter beans, creamy ricotta, tangy lemon, and fragrant basil pesto. This Butter Beans with Ricotta, Lemon + Basil Pesto Recipe brings simplicity and elegance to your table with every spoonful. I hope you give it a try soon and discover how effortlessly it becomes a favorite, promising bright flavors and comforting textures in every bite!
Print
Butter Beans with Ricotta, Lemon + Basil Pesto Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
A vibrant and creamy butter beans dish featuring ricotta, fresh lemon zest, and flavorful basil pesto. This versatile recipe can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled, making it perfect as a vegetarian main, side dish, or picnic-ready salad.
Ingredients
Butter Beans and Ricotta Mix
- 2 cans (15 oz each) butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pesto and Garnish
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained butter beans, ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper and gently mix until the beans are well coated but not mashed.
- Warm the Pesto: In a small saucepan, warm the pesto over low heat just until heated through, being careful not to cook it too long so the flavors remain fresh.
- Incorporate Pesto: Drizzle the warmed pesto over the butter bean and ricotta mixture and gently fold to incorporate, leaving some visible swirls of green for a beautiful presentation.
- Add Olive Oil and Cheese: Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese to add richness and depth.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve the dish warm, at room temperature, or chilled, according to your preference.
Notes
- This dish works beautifully as a vegetarian main, side dish, or a picnic-ready salad.
- For extra texture and flavor, top with toasted pine nuts or crusty breadcrumbs before serving.
- Use homemade basil pesto for the freshest flavor or store-bought for convenience.
- The dish is naturally gluten-free and suitable for a vegetarian diet.
