Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon dairy-free butter (or extra virgin olive oil)
- 1 leek, thinly sliced (white and light green parts only)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can white beans (great northern or cannellini; drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- ½ cup vegetable broth
Green Sauce
- 1 cup packed baby spinach (or kale)
- 1 handful fresh basil (about 5-6 large leaves)
- ¼ cup grated vegan parmesan
- 3 tablespoons vegan cream cheese
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup water
- ½ teaspoon salt (more or less, to taste)
Instructions
- Sauté Leeks: In a large skillet, warm the dairy-free butter or olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced leeks and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown and tender, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Beans and Peas: Add the minced garlic to the skillet, followed by the drained white beans, frozen peas, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a low simmer and cook gently for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Prepare Green Sauce: While the beans simmer, combine the spinach (or kale), fresh basil leaves, vegan parmesan, vegan cream cheese, water, lemon juice, and salt in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust by adding more lemon juice, cheese, or salt as desired for brightness and seasoning.
- Combine and Simmer: Pour the blended green sauce into the skillet with the bean mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine everything evenly. Continue to simmer the mixture for a few minutes until the sauce thickens to a saucy consistency.
- Serve: Serve the green saucy beans warm, ideal as a side to your favorite protein or spooned over toasted bread for a satisfying dairy-free, plant-based dish.
Notes
- You can substitute kale for spinach if preferred for a heartier green flavor.
- Adjust salt and lemon juice to personalize the acidity and seasoning of the sauce.
- This dish pairs well with grilled proteins, roasted vegetables, or can be enjoyed as a plant-based main over toast.
- Use fresh or frozen herbs if fresh basil is unavailable; dried basil can be added but reduce the quantity.
- For a nuttier flavor, consider topping with toasted pine nuts or walnuts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegetarian, Plant-Based
- Diet: Vegan
