Name: Creamy Miso Butter Beans with Spinach and Lemon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 shallots, thinly sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cans butter beans, drained and rinsed; 1 1/2 cups vegetable stock; 1 tablespoon white miso paste; 1/2 cup whole cream or coconut cream; 3 cups packed baby spinach; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Optional – 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill

Print Recipe· 4.2 from 4 reviews

Nothing feels quite as comforting and uplifting as a dish that combines creaminess, brightness, and a touch of umami in perfect harmony. The Creamy Miso Butter Beans with Spinach and Lemon Recipe delivers exactly that with its luscious texture, vibrant flavors, and effortless elegance. This dish brings together tender butter beans simmered in a savory miso-infused cream sauce, fresh baby spinach leaves, and a splash of zesty lemon juice to brighten every bite. It’s a cozy, nourishing meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome—a true crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A teal round pot filled with a thick light orange creamy sauce at the bottom, covered with fresh, bright green spinach leaves spread all over in a single layer. The sauce surface is slightly visible beneath the large, glossy spinach leaves which vary in size and have their stems intact. This pot sits on a black cooktop with a white marbled countertop visible around it. The photo is bright and clear, showing the fresh texture of the spinach and the creamy sauce beneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the rich flavor and inviting texture. From the gentle sweetness of shallots to the silky coconut cream, these accessible ingredients come together in a way that feels special yet easy to prepare.

Olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity base that brings all the flavors together without overpowering them.
Shallots: Provide a subtle sweetness and soft texture that melts perfectly into the sauce.
Garlic: Lends a fragrant warmth that enhances the umami dimension.
Butter beans: The creamy star of the dish, these beans offer a tender, buttery bite.
Vegetable stock: A savory liquid that deepens the flavor without heaviness.
White miso paste: Introduces earthy, salty umami that makes this recipe truly unique.
Whole cream or coconut cream: Creates the silky richness that envelops every bean and leaf.
Baby spinach: Delivers fresh, green vibrancy and a slight crisp contrast once wilted.
Sea salt: Balances and enhances natural flavors.
Ground black pepper: Adds a gentle hint of spice for complexity.
Lemon juice: Brightens the dish with refreshing citrus notes.
Fresh dill (optional): Garnishes the dish with a delicate, herbaceous pop.

How to Make Creamy Miso Butter Beans with Spinach and Lemon Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Shallots

Begin by warming the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or pot. Once shimmering, add the thinly sliced shallots and cook them gently for about 3 to 5 minutes until they turn translucent and release their natural sweetness. This step lays the flavorful foundation of your dish.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook it for just 30 seconds. You want the garlic to become fragrant without turning bitter, so keep a close eye on it as it sautés briefly alongside those softened shallots.

Step 3: Simmer Butter Beans with Stock and Miso

Pour in the rinsed butter beans, vegetable stock, and white miso paste. Stir well to dissolve the miso completely into the liquid, creating a rich umami broth. Let this mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly, intensifying the sauce.

Step 4: Add Cream and Continue to Simmer

Lower the heat and stir in the whole cream or coconut cream, whichever you prefer to bring a luscious, velvety texture to the dish. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. At this point, your sauce should feel thick and inviting.

Step 5: Incorporate Spinach, Seasonings, and Lemon Juice

Finally, stir in the packed baby spinach leaves, sea salt, and ground black pepper. Cook just until the spinach wilts and softens, preserving that fresh green vibrancy. Take the pan off the heat and add the lemon juice, which will give the dish a fresh zing that balances the creamy richness beautifully.

How to Serve Creamy Miso Butter Beans with Spinach and Lemon Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped dill adds a lovely herbaceous note and a visual pop of green, making this dish feel even more special. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top right before serving can also enhance the aroma and mouthfeel.

Side Dishes

This creamy, savory main pairs wonderfully with simple crusty bread to soak up every luscious spoonful. You can also offer a light grain like quinoa or brown rice alongside for a heartier meal, ensuring the dish remains balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Creamy Miso Butter Beans with Spinach and Lemon Recipe in shallow bowls to showcase its beautiful creamy texture and vibrant colors. For a twist, dollop with cooling Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, which adds delightful contrasting textures and flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover creamy miso butter beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect recipe to prepare in advance for busy weeknights.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it into a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. Keep in mind that the texture of spinach may change slightly after thawing, but the flavors will remain delicious.

Reheating

To reheat, warm gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of vegetable stock or water can help restore a smooth, creamy consistency. Avoid reheating on high heat to prevent curdling or drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of beans for this recipe?

Absolutely! While butter beans provide that buttery texture, cannellini or great northern beans work well too. Just choose beans with a creamy consistency to maintain the dish’s character.

Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes, it can be easily vegan. Use coconut cream instead of dairy cream and ensure your miso paste contains no fish-based ingredients. This swap keeps the dish luscious and plant-based.

What if I don’t have white miso paste?

You can substitute with yellow miso paste, which has a stronger flavor, though start with a little less and adjust to taste. Avoid red miso as it’s much more pungent and may overpower the dish.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely. The flavors actually deepen if made earlier and reheated gently. Just be sure to add lemon juice fresh when serving to maintain its bright, fresh character.

How important is the lemon juice?

Lemon juice is key to balancing the creamy, umami flavors with a refreshing acidity. It lifts the dish and prevents it from feeling too heavy, so don’t skip it!

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Miso Butter Beans with Spinach and Lemon Recipe is such a joy to make and enjoy. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day, effortlessly blending comforting creaminess with fresh, vibrant notes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and savor every soulful spoonful!