Description
Lemony Pesto Beans are a quick and nutritious Italian side dish featuring tender cannellini beans tossed in fragrant basil pesto and bright lemon juice, creating a flavorful complement to grilled meats, seafood, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Beans and Pesto
- 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup basil pesto
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the beans.
- Cook beans: Add the drained and rinsed cannellini beans to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are heated through.
- Add pesto and lemon: Stir in ¼ cup of basil pesto, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, mixing well to evenly coat the beans with flavor.
- Season: Taste and season the beans with salt and black pepper according to your preference.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves before serving warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.
- Pairs wonderfully with grilled fish or roasted chicken.
- You can use either homemade or store-bought pesto depending on preference.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
