Butter Beans and Braised Leeks

Delight your taste buds with this hearty and wholesome recipe for Butter Beans and Braised Leeks, a dish that combines tender butter beans with the delicate sweetness of slow-braised leeks. Infused with the depth of fresh thyme, a hint of garlic, and a splash of zesty lemon juice, this comforting recipe is simmered in savory vegetable broth, creating a rich, velvety base. Perfect as a vegetarian main or a flavorful side, this dish comes together in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up every drop of the aromatic broth, and don’t forget the optional sprinkle of fresh parsley for a bright finishing touch. Whether you’re looking for a hearty plant-based recipe or a sophisticated yet simple side, this butter bean and leek creation is sure to impress.

Nutriscore Rating: 80/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 400 g butter beans (canned or cooked from dry)
• 3 large leeks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 250 ml vegetable broth
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Clean the leeks by cutting off the dark green tops and root ends. Slice the white and light green parts into 1/2-inch thick rounds and rinse them thoroughly to remove any grit.

Step 2

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the leeks to the pan and season with a pinch of salt. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the leeks begin to soften and turn golden.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes, being careful not to let the garlic burn.

Step 5

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the thyme sprigs. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat, cover the pan, and let the leeks braise for 15 minutes or until tender.

Step 6

Drain and rinse the butter beans if using canned. Add them to the pan with the leeks and stir gently to combine.

Step 7

Season the dish with lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the butter beans through and meld the flavors.

Step 8

Remove the thyme sprigs and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 9

Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Pair with crusty bread or serve as a side dish to complement your main course.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1188.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1181.0

Total Fat 57.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 19.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.4g
Cholesterol 62mg	0%
Sodium 2304.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 145.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 27.4g	0%
Total Sugars 25.0g
Protein 33.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 485.6mg	0%
Iron 20.1mg	0%
Potassium 2719.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 42.0%

Protein: 10.9%

Carbs: 47.1%