Slow-Cooked Courgettes & Creamy Butter Beans

Posted on

Slow-Cooked Courgettes & Creamy Butter Beans

Dinner Ideas

Craving a comforting, wholesome meal that’s both hearty and healthy? This Slow-Cooked Courgettes & Creamy Butter Beans dish is the perfect plant-based main or side. With tender courgettes (zucchini), luscious butter beans, and a silky, herbed tomato base, it’s rich in flavor and full of nourishment. Whether you serve it with crusty bread, over rice, or enjoy it on its own, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Plant-Based Comfort – A filling, fiber-rich dish that’s completely meat-free.
Hands-Off Cooking – Slow-cooked for maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Naturally Creamy – Butter beans melt into a silky texture without cream.
Great for Batch Cooking – Perfect for meal prep or next-day leftovers.
Customizable – Add herbs, chili, or greens to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 3 medium courgettes (zucchini), sliced into half-moons
  • 1 can (15 oz) butter beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) chopped tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for gentle heat)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup vegetable broth or water
  • Juice of ½ lemon
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Tools You’ll Need

  • Slow cooker (or heavy-bottomed pot for stovetop)
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

  1. Wash and slice the courgettes into thick half-moons.
  2. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics (Optional but Recommended)
3. In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil.
4. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
5. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
6. Stir in the tomato paste and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute.

Step 3: Load the Slow Cooker
7. Transfer the sautéed mixture to your slow cooker.
8. Add chopped tomatoes, drained butter beans, courgettes, thyme, oregano, chili flakes (if using), and vegetable broth.
9. Season with salt and pepper. Drizzle in the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil.
10. Stir everything together to combine well.

Step 4: Cook Low & Slow
11. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the courgettes are tender and the beans are soft and creamy.
12. Check seasoning and adjust with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

Step 5: Finish & Serve
13. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
14. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley.
15. Serve warm with crusty bread, cooked grains, or on its own as a hearty bowl.

Slow-Cooked Courgettes & Creamy Butter Beans
Slow-Cooked Courgettes & Creamy Butter Beans

Tips for the Best Slow-Cooked Courgettes & Butter Beans
Go Low & Slow – For the creamiest texture and richest flavor.
Sauté First – Boosts flavor and adds depth to the dish.
Don’t Overcrowd – Use a wide slow cooker for better consistency.
Add Leafy Greens – Stir in spinach or kale in the last 30 minutes for extra nutrition.
Make It Spicier – Increase chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce before serving.

Serving Suggestions
Crusty Whole Grain Bread – Perfect for scooping and soaking up the juices.
Steamed Rice or Quinoa – Makes it a full meal with added protein.
Grilled Vegetables – Pair with roasted aubergine or peppers.
Side Salad – Add freshness with a lemony green salad on the side.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Microwave: Reheat on medium in 1-minute intervals until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use dried butter beans?
    Yes. Soak them overnight and cook separately before adding them to the slow cooker in the final hour.
  2. What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
    You can simmer everything in a covered pot on low heat for 45–60 minutes on the stovetop.
  3. Is this dish vegan?
    Yes, it’s naturally vegan and packed with plant-based protein and fiber.
  4. What other beans can I use?
    Cannellini beans, chickpeas, or navy beans are good alternatives.
  5. Can I make it creamier?
    For extra richness, stir in a spoonful of tahini or a splash of coconut milk at the end.

Final Thoughts
This Slow-Cooked Courgettes & Creamy Butter Beans dish is the definition of feel-good food. Nourishing, flavorful, and oh-so-easy, it’s the perfect recipe for busy days or cozy nights in. Whether you’re looking to eat more plants, follow a low-carb lifestyle, or just enjoy a great home-cooked meal, this one ticks all the boxes.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see how your dish turns out.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 220 | Protein: 9g | Carbohydrates: 26g | Fat: 8g | Fiber: 8g | Sodium: 360mg

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Slow-Cooked Courgettes & Creamy Butter Beans

Slow-Cooked Courgettes & Creamy Butter Beans


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Emily
  • Total Time: 0 hours

Description

Craving a comforting, wholesome meal that’s both hearty and healthy? This Slow-Cooked Courgettes & Creamy Butter Beans dish is the perfect plant-based main or side. With tender courgettes (zucchini), luscious butter beans, and a silky, herbed tomato base, it’s rich in flavor and full of nourishment. Whether you serve it with crusty bread, over rice, or enjoy it on its own, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium courgettes (zucchini), sliced into half-moons

  • 1 can (15 oz) butter beans (drained and rinsed)

  • 1 onion, finely chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 can (14 oz) chopped tomatoes

  • 1 tbsp tomato paste

  • 1 tsp dried thyme

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for gentle heat)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • ½ cup vegetable broth or water

  • Juice of ½ lemon

  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish


Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

  1. Wash and slice the courgettes into thick half-moons.

  2. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics (Optional but Recommended)
3. In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil.
4. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
5. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
6. Stir in the tomato paste and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute.

Step 3: Load the Slow Cooker
7. Transfer the sautéed mixture to your slow cooker.
8. Add chopped tomatoes, drained butter beans, courgettes, thyme, oregano, chili flakes (if using), and vegetable broth.
9. Season with salt and pepper. Drizzle in the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil.
10. Stir everything together to combine well.

Step 4: Cook Low & Slow
11. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the courgettes are tender and the beans are soft and creamy.
12. Check seasoning and adjust with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

Step 5: Finish & Serve
13. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
14. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley.
15. Serve warm with crusty bread, cooked grains, or on its own as a hearty bowl.

Notes

Go Low & Slow – For the creamiest texture and richest flavor.
Sauté First – Boosts flavor and adds depth to the dish.
Don’t Overcrowd – Use a wide slow cooker for better consistency.
Add Leafy Greens – Stir in spinach or kale in the last 30 minutes for extra nutrition.
Make It Spicier – Increase chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce before serving.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired

Tags:

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star