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Creamy Caesar White Beans with Parmesan and Lemon Recipe

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4.1 from 6 reviews

A creamy, savory Caesar White Beans recipe that combines tender butter beans with a flavorful sauce made from anchovy, garlic, Parmesan, and a tangy hint of lemon. This quick and easy stovetop dish is perfect as a side or a comforting light meal, delivering a rich and satisfying taste with just 15 minutes of prep and cooking time.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 shallot (finely chopped)
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 anchovy fillet

Seasonings and Sauces

  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Dijon or grain mustard
  • 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼ cup chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (more to taste)
  • freshly ground black pepper (for serving)

Main Ingredients

  • 3 cans butter beans (14 oz / 400 g each, drained and rinsed)
  • 1 cup half-and-half
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley (more for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Grate the Parmesan cheese, finely chop the shallot, mince the garlic cloves, and chop the parsley. Having these prepped beforehand will make cooking smoother and faster.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Melt butter over low heat in a nonstick skillet. Add the shallot, garlic, and anchovy fillet, and cook gently for about 3 minutes until the shallot is soft and the mixture is fragrant.
  3. Add Flavorings: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth and let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
  4. Cook Beans and Sauce: Add the drained and rinsed white butter beans to the skillet, pour in the half-and-half and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan and continue simmering for about 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Finish and Serve: Stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley, then adjust the lemon juice to your desired brightness. Season with freshly ground black pepper before serving. Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh finish.

Notes

  • Use good-quality anchovy fillet for a rich umami flavor that is key to the Caesar taste.
  • Adjust lemon juice to balance creaminess with acidity to your preference.
  • Ensure beans are well-drained and rinsed to reduce sodium and ensure better texture.
  • This dish can be served warm as a side or a light vegetarian main if anchovy is omitted for pescatarian or vegetarian diets.
  • Use half-and-half or substitute with whole milk or cream depending on desired richness.
  • Worcestershire sauce adds complexity but check for anchovy-free versions if avoiding fish.