1. What Do Americans Call Butter Beans?

In the United States, butter beans are commonly referred to as lima beans. While both names are used interchangeably, the term butter bean is often reserved for the larger, mature variety with a creamier texture. Lima beans, especially when young, are smaller and firmer, while butter beans are usually soft, smooth, and ideal for dishes like lasagna where a creamy consistency is desired.

2. What Are Butter Beans Called in Italy?

In Italy, butter beans are known as Fagioli di Spagna or Bianchi di Spagna, which translates to "Spanish beans" or "white beans of Spain." These beans are widely used in Italian cuisine, often added to soups, stews, and pasta dishes. Their mild flavor and creamy texture make them a great addition to lasagna, especially as a vegetarian protein alternative.

3. What Do Butter Beans Taste Like?

Butter beans have a mild, slightly nutty flavor with a rich, buttery texture when cooked. They absorb seasonings well, making them versatile in various dishes, including butter bean lasagna. Their texture is soft and smooth, similar to mashed potatoes or ricotta cheese, making them an excellent filling option that blends seamlessly with tomato sauce and pasta.

4. Can You Put Butter Beans in Lasagna?

Yes, butter beans work exceptionally well in lasagna. Their creamy texture and mild taste allow them to absorb the flavors of tomato sauce, garlic, and herbs while adding a healthy, protein-rich component to the dish. Butter beans can be used in different ways in lasagna: Mashed into a ricotta-like consistency for a creamy, plant-based filling. Left whole for texture, replacing meat in a vegetarian version. Blended with cheese and spinach for added depth and nutrition.

5. What Do the Spanish Call Butter Beans?

In Spain, butter beans are called Judías de Manteca, which translates to "butter beans." The name reflects their smooth, buttery texture when cooked. They are commonly used in Spanish stews, casseroles, and soups, much like they are in butter bean lasagna. Their ability to absorb flavors makes them a key ingredient in many traditional Mediterranean dishes.

6. Are Butter Beans Healthy?

Yes, butter beans are highly nutritious and offer a variety of health benefits: **High in protein and fiber, making them a great plant-based alternative to meat. **Low in fat, which supports heart health. **Rich in iron and magnesium, essential for energy production and muscle function. **Packed with antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation in the body. When used in butter bean lasagna, they provide a nutrient-dense, satisfying meal that supports overall well-being.

7. What Kind of Beans Do Italians Eat?

Italy is known for its diverse use of beans in traditional cuisine. Some of the most popular beans in Italy include: **Cannellini Beans – White beans commonly used in minestrone soup and pasta dishes. **Borlotti Beans – Speckled beans used in stews and salads. **Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans) – Frequently added to soups, pasta, and side dishes. **Butter Beans (Fagioli di Spagna) – Used in Mediterranean-style pasta and lasagna recipes. Butter beans are a common ingredient in Italian-inspired vegetarian lasagna, offering a creamy texture and a subtle, nutty flavor that enhances the dish.

10-Minute Butter Bean Lasagna Recipe

Butter Bean Lasagna: A Hearty, Healthy Twist on a Classic Dish

Print Recipe

This butter bean lasagna is a healthy, protein-packed twist on a classic comfort food. Made with creamy butter beans, rich tomato sauce, and layers of melted cheese, it’s perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking for a nutritious meal.

Author: Sarra
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

For the Butter Bean Filling:

2 cups butter beans, cooked and mashed
½ cup vegetable broth (for blending)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp Italian seasoning

For the Tomato Sauce:

2 cups tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
½ small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Lasagna Layers:

9 sheets lasagna noodles (regular or gluten-free)
1 cup ricotta cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
½ cup spinach (optional, for extra nutrients)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Butter Bean Mixture

In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
Mash the butter beans in a bowl and blend them with vegetable broth to create a creamy consistency.
Stir in salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then set aside.

Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce

Heat olive oil in a pan, then sauté the onions and garlic until soft.
Add the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in a baking dish.
Add a layer of lasagna noodles, followed by butter bean filling and ricotta cheese.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and repeat layers, finishing with tomato sauce and cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake the Lasagna

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a vegan version, use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free lasagna noodles or sliced zucchini.
Make ahead: Assemble the lasagna and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Freezing instructions: Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Butter bean lasagna, healthy lasagna, vegetarian lasagna, plant-based lasagna, high-protein lasagna, gluten-free lasagna alternative

Find it online: https://sarrarecipes.com/butter-bean-lasagna/