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Creamy Pesto Beans Recipe

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4.2 from 15 reviews

A quick and delicious creamy pesto beans recipe that combines silken tofu, white beans, and vibrant vegan pesto for a flavorful plant-based meal. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or satisfying lunch.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Sauce

  • 1 (10.5 oz) package silken tofu
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
  • 1/2 lemon, juiced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Main Ingredients

  • 1 (19 oz) jar white beans, drained and rinsed (about 2 cups)
  • 1/4 cup vegan pesto
  • Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the creamy sauce: Add the silken tofu, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder to a blender. Puree the mixture until it becomes a smooth, creamy sauce with no lumps.
  2. Heat the beans and sauce: Pour the white beans and the prepared creamy sauce into a skillet. Place the skillet over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, for 2 to 3 minutes to combine the flavors and warm the beans through.
  3. Add the vegan pesto: Stir in the vegan pesto into the skillet and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes while stirring to fully incorporate the pesto into the creamy bean mixture.
  4. Serve and garnish: Turn off the heat and transfer the creamy pesto beans to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • You can substitute white beans with cannellini or great northern beans if preferred.
  • For a nut-free pesto option, use a store-bought or homemade pesto without pine nuts or walnuts.
  • Serve over cooked pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Adjust lemon juice and seasoning to taste before serving.