Cooking is more than just a necessity; it’s a love language, a way to connect with friends and family. I remember the first time I stumbled upon a Marinated Butter Beans recipe at a local potluck. The vibrant colors and zesty aroma drew me in, and one bite brought an explosion of flavors that made my taste buds dance. This dish is not only visually appealing but also quick to make, packed with nutrition, and incredibly refreshing—perfect for warm weather or as a delightful side at any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Marinated Butter Beans are a true gem for anyone looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy addition to their meals. This dish checks so many boxes: it’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and loaded with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Plus, it can easily be served as a stand-alone salad or a side dish.
“I tossed together this recipe for a family barbecue, and it was a hit! Everyone kept asking for the recipe. It’s so easy, and the flavors really pop!” – Happy Home Cook
How to Make Marinated Butter Beans
Creating Marinated Butter Beans is a straightforward process that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Start by whisking together a zesty marinade, then combine your fresh ingredients, and let everything chill to allow the flavors to meld. The overall flow is quick: mix, toss, marinate, and serve!
What You’ll Need
Gather these items for a delicious batch of Marinated Butter Beans:
- 1 can of butter beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 cucumber (diced)
- 1/4 red onion (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
You can easily substitute fresh herbs or add in other veggies based on your preference!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by whisking together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the drained butter beans with diced red bell pepper, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and chopped parsley.
- Pour the marinade over the salad, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Serve as a zesty salad or over fresh greens for a light and satisfying meal.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serving Marinated Butter Beans is just as fun as making them! Try plating it over a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing salad or alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It’s also great with a touch of feta cheese sprinkled on top, and a crisp glass of white wine can elevate the experience.
How to Store
To keep your leftovers fresh, store the Marinated Butter Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3 to 5 days. Because the flavors deepen over time, this dish is wonderful for meal prep! If you choose to reheat it, do so gently on the stovetop, but I recommend enjoying it cold for the best taste.
Tips to Make It Perfect
For an outstanding dish, always ensure your ingredients are fresh. Using high-quality olive oil will elevate the marinated flavor. To save time, you can use pre-chopped vegetables or even frozen butter beans; just make sure they’re thawed and drained before use. Also, letting the salad marinate longer enhances the flavors, so if you can, let it sit overnight.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative! You can add cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness or incorporate chickpeas for added protein. For a spicy kick, try mixing in jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. You can also switch the parsley with fresh mint or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to prepare Marinated Butter Beans?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marinated Butter Beans taste even better the next day. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Are there any substitutes for butter beans?
Yes! Cannellini beans or chickpeas can work well in this recipe if you’re looking for a different flavor or texture.
Marinated Butter Beans
A refreshing and flavorful salad made with marinated butter beans, fresh vegetables, and a zesty marinade.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 can of butter beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 cucumber (diced)
- 1/4 red onion (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the drained butter beans with diced red bell pepper, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and chopped parsley.
- Pour the marinade over the salad, ensuring that all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve as a zesty salad or over fresh greens.
Notes
Using high-quality olive oil will enhance the flavor. Let the salad marinate longer for a deeper taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg