As I tossed together the ingredients for my High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans, a delightful aroma filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean. This recipe not only comes together in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect solution for those hectic weeknights, but it’s also a nutritional powerhouse—packed with plant-based protein and vibrant flavors. The zesty Romesco sauce elevates the creamy butter beans to create a comforting dish that’s versatile enough for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just want a cozy bowl of goodness, this dish ticks all the boxes. Curious about how to whip up this scrumptious delight? Let’s dive in!
Why are High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans a Must-Try?
Bursting with flavor: The zesty Romesco sauce combined with creamy butter beans creates an irresistible medley that will brighten up any meal.
Quick preparation: This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you seek homemade goodness.
Nutrient-rich: With 26 g of protein per serving, these butter beans are a fantastic choice for anyone wanting healthy and filling options.
Versatile & customizable: Enjoy them on their own, atop sautéed greens, or even with crusty bread for extra texture. You can play around with variations by swapping in cooked chickpeas or adding your favorite veggies!
Meal prep hero: Perfect for make-ahead meals, store leftovers easily for a quick, nourishing future meal that’s still bursting with flavor!
High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans Ingredients
• Curious about what’s in these delightful beans? Let’s break it down!
For the Romesco Sauce
- Jarred Roasted Red Bell Peppers – Adds sweetness and depth; fresh roasted bell peppers can be substituted if preferred.
- Garlic Cloves – Provides a pungent aroma; feel free to add more for a stronger taste or omit if sensitive.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Contributes umami and tartness; can swap with extra roasted bell peppers if they’re not available.
- Extra Firm Tofu – Serves as the primary protein source, adding creaminess; replace with silken cashew cream for a soy-free option.
- Smoked Paprika – Introduces a rich, smoky flavor; sweet paprika with a pinch of cumin works well as a replacement.
- Sea Salt Flakes – Enhances all flavors; adjust according to your saltiness preference.
- Red Chili Flakes – Adds a touch of heat; omit for a milder dish or substitute with cayenne for more spice.
- Roasted Almonds – Provides crunch and extra protein; pine nuts or walnuts can be used as substitutes.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish; opt for fresh lemon juice for the best zing.
- Water – Adjust for sauce consistency; more water results in a thinner sauce.
- Olive Oil – Adds richness; avocado oil can be used for a different flavor.
For the Main Dish
- Cherry Tomatoes – Adds freshness and juiciness; use canned diced tomatoes in a pinch.
- Cooked Butter Beans – Acts as the main carbohydrate and protein source; substitute with cannellini beans or chickpeas for variety.
- Fresh Parsley – Garnish for color and freshness; substitute with basil for an interesting twist.
- Lemon Zest – Enhances aroma; optional for those who enjoy a zestier flavor.
Now that you have everything laid out, get ready to create your delicious High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans—all while enjoying the warm Mediterranean vibes right in your kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans
Step 1: Blend the Sauce
In a blender, combine jarred roasted red bell peppers, garlic cloves, sun-dried tomatoes, and extra firm tofu. Add smoked paprika, sea salt, red chili flakes, 2 tablespoons of roasted almonds, lemon juice, and 1/2 cup of water. Blend on high for about 30-45 seconds until smooth, but leave some texture if desired. You want a creamy consistency for your Romesco sauce that will coat the butter beans beautifully.
Step 2: Cook the Tomatoes
In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add halved cherry tomatoes and cover the pan. Cook for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and burst. This step enhances their sweetness, providing a lovely base that complements the High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans.
Step 3: Combine Sauce and Beans
Reduce the heat to low, then pour the blended Romesco sauce into the saucepan with the cooked cherry tomatoes. Next, add 2 cups of cooked butter beans to the mix. Stir gently to combine everything, ensuring the beans are fully coated in the vibrant sauce. Heat through for about 3-5 minutes until everything is warm and inviting.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once heated, remove the pan from heat. Serve the dish warm, garnished with the remaining chopped roasted almonds, freshly chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness. Plate it up in a cozy bowl, and your High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans are ready to be enjoyed, bringing a touch of Mediterranean flair to your table!
Expert Tips for High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans
-
Ingredient Freshness: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, especially the roasted red bell peppers and garlic to enhance your Romesco sauce.
-
Texture Control: Blend your sauce to your preferred consistency; a little texture adds character while still being creamy for the High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans.
-
Taste as You Go: Season the sauce gradually, tasting as you mix; it’s easy to add more salt or spices, but hard to fix an over-seasoned dish.
-
Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking the cherry tomatoes; you want them to soften and burst without turning completely mushy for a nice balance.
-
Marrying Flavors: Let the High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans sit for a few minutes before serving. This extra time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall dish!
How to Store and Freeze High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. This allows for quick, nutritious meals throughout the week.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Portion out servings for easy meal prep.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through, ensuring the creamy texture of the High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans remains intact.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil when reheating to elevate flavors and presentation.
High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this dish your own with these exciting swaps and additions!
- Chickpeas Swap: Replace butter beans with chickpeas for a nuttier texture and additional protein boost. It’s a delightful twist that changes both flavor and mouthfeel.
- Herby Greens: Stir in sautéed spinach or kale for a vibrant color and extra nutrients. Adding greens enriches the dish and makes it even heartier.
- Creamy Cauliflower: Use blended cauliflower instead of tofu for a creamy, dairy-free version. This makes the sauce lighter, yet still delicious and satisfying.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper in lieu of red chili flakes for a sharper heat. This lively addition will surely warm your palate!
- Nut-Free: For a nut-free option, substitute roasted almonds with sunflower seeds. This provides the same crunch without the allergens.
- Citrus Flair: Squeeze in fresh orange juice along with lemon juice to add an unexpected and zesty twist to the sauce. The sweetness of orange complements the spiciness perfectly.
- Over Quinoa: Serve over a bed of fluffy quinoa instead of just on its own. This elevates the meal and adds a delightful chewy texture.
- Roasted Veggies: Add roasted zucchini or bell peppers for a smokier element. Roasting intensifies the flavors, creating a richer sauce.
Whichever variations you choose, your High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans will be a hit! If you love exploring new flavors, check out my recipes for Gooey Butter Pecan or Garlic Butter Steak for more kitchen inspiration!
Make Ahead Options
These High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the Romesco sauce up to 24 hours in advance by blending all the sauce ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can cook the butter beans and cherry tomatoes ahead of time, keeping them refrigerated for up to 3 days. Simply combine the sauce with the beans and tomatoes when ready to serve, warming it gently on the stovetop for about 5 minutes. This way, you’ll still enjoy the vibrant flavors and creamy texture, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
What to Serve with High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans
These vibrant butter beans create a wonderful foundation for a delightful Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s sure to impress.
-
Crusty Whole Wheat Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce, this hearty bread adds a lovely texture to balance the dish.
-
Sautéed Spinach: A quick sauté brings out the spinach’s earthy flavors, providing a nutritious and colorful side that complements the butter beans beautifully.
-
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Tossed with olives, cucumbers, and feta, this salad adds freshness and a variety of textures, elevating the entire meal experience.
-
Zucchini Noodles: Low-carb and fresh, these noodles provide a light, crisp contrast that perfectly complements the rich Romesco sauce.
-
Grilled Veggies: Charred bell peppers and zucchini offer smokiness that enhances the Mediterranean flair, creating a well-rounded plate.
-
Lemon Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and tender within, these fragrant potatoes soak up the zesty flavors of the dish, making each bite satisfying.
-
Crisp Side Salad: A simple mix of lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumber drizzled with a light vinaigrette brightens the meal and adds a refreshing crunch.
-
Glass of White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the rich flavors, enhancing your overall dining experience.
-
Almond Biscotti: For dessert, these crunchy treats resonate with the almonds in the dish and provide a sweet finish after a savory affair.
High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans Recipe FAQs
What kind of bell peppers should I use for the sauce?
Absolutely! I recommend jarred roasted red bell peppers for convenience and sweetness, but if you’re looking for fresh flavor, use fresh roasted red bell peppers. Just roast them until their skins are charred, about 30 to 40 minutes, then peel off the skins before blending.
How should I store leftovers?
Store your High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. This will keep them fresh for quick meal options throughout the week. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing the container for best results!
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! For longer storage, you can freeze the High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Allow the beans to cool completely, then portion them out to make reheating easier in the future. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or microwave.
What’s the best way to reheat the dish?
I recommend reheating on the stovetop for even warming. Just add the frozen or thawed High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans to a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through—this should take about 5-7 minutes. If you like, you can add a splash of water or olive oil to keep the sauce creamy and prevent sticking.
Are these beans safe for everyone to eat?
Very! The High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans are plant-based and gluten-free, making them suitable for many dietary preferences. However, as with any recipes, always check for allergies with specific ingredients like nuts in the roasted almonds. If you’re cooking for pets, remember that garlic and onions can be harmful to dogs, so it’s best to avoid those in their meals.
Can I add more veggies to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like sautéed spinach, kale, or zucchini noodles for extra nutrition and color. Just sauté them ahead of time or blend them in with the Romesco sauce for a heartier dish. The more the merrier!
High-Protein Romesco Butter Beans: A Flavorful Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a blender, combine jarred roasted red bell peppers, garlic cloves, sun-dried tomatoes, and extra firm tofu. Add smoked paprika, sea salt, red chili flakes, roasted almonds, lemon juice, and water. Blend on high for about 30-45 seconds until smooth.
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once it shimmers, add halved cherry tomatoes and cover the pan. Cook for about 7 minutes until they soften and burst.
- Reduce heat to low, then pour the blended Romesco sauce into the saucepan with the cooked cherry tomatoes. Add cooked butter beans and stir gently to combine. Heat through for about 3-5 minutes.
- Once heated, remove the pan from heat. Serve warm, garnished with chopped roasted almonds, parsley, and lemon zest.
Leave a Reply