Lima beans have gained a reputation for being bland and unappetizing, but I firmly believe this is due to a lack of creative cooking techniques. When done right, the rich flavor and texture of lima beans can shine through in many different dishes. For those who already adore lima beans, this collection of 13 recipes will be music to their ears.
Conversely, for non-believers, I encourage you to start with the simple yet flavorful lima bean skillet or the creamy lima bean pesto hummus, which are perfect examples of how these often-maligned legumes can be elevated to new heights. Even the classic Southern-style lima beans are a treat. Ultimately, whether you’re a seasoned fan or a skeptic, I’m confident that exploring these diverse recipes will prove just how versatile and delicious lima beans can be.
Easy Southern Lima Beans and More!
Simple Southern Lima Beans
Keen cooks know that the secret to bringing out the best flavors in lima beans or butter beans lies in combining the right ingredients with careful preparation. To start, you’ll need a well-stocked spice cabinet, smoked ham, and an adequate supply of chicken stock. Additionally, the holy trio of stew veggies – onion, celery, and carrot – will add depth and richness to these delicious legumes. The result is a smooth, slightly salty treat that pairs perfectly with a warm slice of cornbread.
Greek-Style Baked Lima Beans
Lima beans are often overshadowed by their flavor profile in many recipes, but this particular preparation lets the natural taste of the beans shine through while maintaining the creaminess that makes them so endearing. The emphasis on diced tomatoes and tomato paste does indeed give the dish a predominantly tomato flavor, which may not be to everyone’s liking.
However, it’s undeniable that this combination creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture and pairs exceptionally well with roast meats, such as pork or beef, making for a satisfying meal.
Lima Bean Skillet
Delivering a satisfying and filling meal, this lima bean skillet dinner packs a punch in just 45 minutes of cooking time. A perfect blend of fresh veggies, including beans, onions, peppers, okra, tomatoes, and corn, is combined with a generous serving of ground beef for added protein. The result is a robustly flavored dish that’s rounded out by a variety of savory sauces and herbs, making it the ultimate comfort food to warm even the chilliest of nights.
Homemade Veggie Burgers With Lima Beans
Packed with protein and texture, black beans are often my go-to choice for making vegan burgers, but lima beans are a very close second. Their mild flavor is balanced perfectly by their high water content, which makes them incredibly juicy.Pairing these characteristics with an array of herbs, seasonings, and toppings offers a world of creative possibilities. So if you’re in the mood for a vegan burger that closely mimics the real thing, give these patties a try.
Lima Bean and Potato Enchiladas With Hatch Green Chili Sauce
Zeroing in on the key ingredients of these enchiladas is crucial for understanding their appeal. Zestfully cheesy, a hint of spice, and boasting a meat-free profile make them an attractive option for those with dietary restrictions. However, don’t assume that ‘vegetarian-friendly’ implies ‘meager serving size.
‘ Rather, they’re packed with russet potatoes, lima beans, and other nutrient-dense components, ensuring that the protein and carbs provide sustained energy, making it unlikely you’ll need to eat again anytime soon.
Pasta With Greens and Lima Beans
Navigating the world of quick and easy meals can be daunting for many home cooks, but this 30-minute ‘greens and beans’ pasta is an exception. Not only does it boast impressive flavors, but it’s also remarkably healthy. The combination of orzo, kale, spinach, lima beans, parsley, and other nutritious ingredients creates a dish that’s both visually appealing and packed with vitamins.
Moreover, the lemon zest adds a touch of citrusy freshness, while the walnuts provide a delightful textural contrast that elevates the entire experience.
Spaghetti With Turkey Meat Sauce and Lima Beans
Looking closely at this spaghetti with meat sauce recipe, it’s easy to see why it’s an excellent way to sneak in some extra lima beans without overpowering the dish. The combination of flavors and textures is designed to mask the lima beans’ taste, making them virtually undetectable amidst the rich meat sauce, savory tomatoes, and aromatic herbs.
The buttery noodles add a comforting element, while the sauce itself is full-bodied and flavorful – a classic spaghetti dinner that just happens to be hiding a nutritious secret.
Asparagus and Lima Bean Pasta Salad
Zest up your mealtime with this delightful pasta salad that’s ready in just 20 minutes! It’s the perfect dish for when you’re craving something packed with robust flavor. The combination of asparagus, onions, bell peppers retains a satisfying crunchiness, while the pasta, beans, and sauce blend together smoothly to create a creamy texture. What sets this recipe apart is the harmonious mix of contrasting flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.
You’ll discover hints of garlic, lemon zest, fresh asparagus, juicy tomatoes, nutty tahini, fragrant dill, and more – each one elevating the dish in its own unique way.
Baby Lima Bean Soup
Laden with nutrients and flavors, baby lima bean soup is an ideal choice for those seeking a light, tomato-based soup packed with a variety of veggies. It’s well-seasoned and expertly seasoned to perfection, with just the right amount of saltiness. Furthermore, this recipe can be easily adapted to accommodate vegetarian diets by simply omitting the pancetta and replacing the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Lima Bean Salad
Known for its simplicity and speed, this 20-minute seven-ingredient lima bean salad is the perfect side dish solution when you’re short on time. To make it, simply gather sweet potatoes, olive oil, garlic, lima beans, burrata cheese, parsley, and lemon juice – the only additional adjustments needed are a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Lima Bean Succotash With Garlic-Rosemary Dressing
Keeping in line with my love for nostalgic references, I often think of Looney Tunes’ Sylvester the cat when making succotash. The phrase ‘Thufferin’ Thuccotash!’ instantly comes to mind and puts a smile on my face. This classic dish is not only simple to prepare but also gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions. Succotash is packed with garden-fresh vegetables, which not only add flavor but also provide a burst of color to the plate.
The addition of a garlic-rosemary dressing takes this side dish to new heights, elevating its taste and aroma beyond what one might expect from a simple succotash recipe. If you’re looking for ideas on what to serve with succotash, consider pairing it with grilled shrimp – the combination is nothing short of delightful!
Lima Bean Pesto Hummus
Often, it takes some time for our taste buds to adjust to new flavors, but one bite of green hummus is all it takes to win us over. The flavor profile is surprisingly similar to traditional chickpea-based hummus, yet with a lighter and more refreshing twist that many people prefer. While I personally stick to the classic version, those who have tried both agree that this variation has its own unique charms.
Mediterranean Lima Beans with Herbed Almond Pesto
Highlighting the vibrant colors of this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Imagine a lima bean bake infused with garlicky beans, topped with a rich and creamy pesto sauce, and finished with juicy tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, fresh spinach leaves, and crunchy breadcrumbs. While it’s already satisfying on its own, feel free to add some pasta if you prefer a more filling option. Its hearty goodness makes it perfect for a comforting meal.
13 Ways to Use Fresh Lima Beans
Jumping straight into the world of versatile ingredients, these five lima bean recipes showcase the legume’s incredible potential in various cuisines. Just as with many other vegetables, it’s easy to overlook the simple yet impressive lima bean, but these recipes are sure to change your perspective and give you a new appreciation for its unique flavor and texture.
From comforting burgers to spicy enchiladas and satisfying pasta dishes, lima beans can be used in an astonishing array of creative ways.
Instructions
Generally, to cook a delicious and quick meal, start by choosing a recipe that you’re fond of. Gather all the necessary ingredients and prepare them according to the instructions. In under 30 minutes, you can have a mouth-watering lima bean dish ready!
