Are you looking for new ways to incorporate dried baby lima beans into your meals? These small, tender beans are a nutritional powerhouse and can be used in a variety of dishes. From comforting soups and stews to flavorful salads and side dishes, there’s no end to the creative possibilities when it comes to cooking with dried baby lima beans.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 different recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of these little gems. From classic Southern-style comfort food to international-inspired flavors and modern twists, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
Slow-Cooked Southern-Style Baby Lima Beans with Ham Hock
This hearty recipe is a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for cold winter nights or special occasions. The slow-cooked baby lima beans absorb the rich flavors of the ham hock and spices, resulting in a creamy, comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried baby lima beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 ham hock, rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add ham hock, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add soaked lima beans and chicken broth to slow cooker. Stir in cooked ham hock mixture.
5. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)
Garlic Butter Baby Lima Beans with Fresh Herbs
Garlic Butter Baby Lima Beans with Fresh Herbs Recipe
Summary: Elevate the humble lima bean to new heights by combining it with rich garlic butter and a burst of fresh herbs. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for accompanying your favorite main dishes or serving as a side.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby lima beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine lima beans and enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, mix softened butter and minced garlic in a small bowl.
4. Drain cooked lima beans and stir in the garlic butter mixture.
5. Fold in chopped parsley and chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and bake for 10-12 minutes or until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Creamy Coconut Curry Baby Lima Beans
This recipe combines the comfort of creamy coconut milk with the warm spices of Indian curry to elevate the humble baby lima bean. The result is a flavorful and nutritious side dish perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup baby lima beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lima beans, coconut milk, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer for 15-20 minutes or until beans are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Smoky Bacon and Baby Lima Bean Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the richness of smoky bacon with the natural sweetness of baby lima beans.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of smoky bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of baby lima beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the baby lima beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the cooked bacon to the pot and stir to combine.
6. Bring the stew to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the lima beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lemon-Herb Baby Lima Beans with Feta Cheese
This refreshing side dish combines the natural sweetness of baby lima beans with the brightness of lemon and the tanginess of feta cheese. Perfect for a light and flavorful accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup baby lima beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add lima beans, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with feta cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the lima beans are tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cajun Baby Lima Beans with Andouille Sausage
Spicy Cajun Baby Lima Beans with Andouille Sausage: A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional lima beans, this recipe combines the tender green beans with smoky andouille sausage for a hearty and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby lima beans
– 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove sausage from skillet; set aside. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add lima beans, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return sausage to the skillet; add chicken broth.
6. Cover skillet with a lid or foil; transfer to preheated oven. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lima beans are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and crusty bread on the side (optional).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Baby Lima Beans with Tomatoes and Olives
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty, easy-to-make dish featuring tender baby lima beans, juicy tomatoes, and salty olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup baby lima beans
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the baby lima beans and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the diced tomatoes to the saucepan and cook until they start to release their juices, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the baby lima beans, sliced olives, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the lima beans are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetarian Baby Lima Bean Chili with Sweet Corn
This hearty and comforting chili recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender baby lima beans and sweet corn. It’s an easy and nutritious meal for the whole family to enjoy.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) baby lima beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Add the baby lima beans, sweet corn, and vegetable broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baby Lima Bean and Kale Soup with Parmesan
This hearty soup combines the sweetness of baby lima beans with the earthiness of kale, finished with a sprinkle of nutty Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby lima beans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the baby lima beans, chicken broth, and chopped kale to the pot.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the beans are tender.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rosemary-Garlic Roasted Baby Lima Beans
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that showcases the best of springtime’s baby lima beans. With a hint of rosemary and pungency from garlic, these tender green beans make for a delicious side dish or add-on to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby lima beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss baby lima beans with garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and mix until the beans are well coated.
4. Spread the bean mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baby Lima Bean Hummus with Tahini and Lemon
This creamy hummus recipe combines the natural sweetness of baby lima beans with the nutty flavor of tahini, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a hint of garlic. It’s a perfect dip for pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked baby lima beans
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the cooked baby lima beans, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the hummus is well combined and has a smooth texture.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with paprika or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cheesy Baked Baby Lima Beans with Breadcrumbs
Transform humble baby lima beans into a creamy, crispy delight by baking them with cheese and breadcrumbs. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby lima beans
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse baby lima beans and drain well.
3. In a baking dish, combine butter, cheese, and breadcrumbs.
4. Add lima beans and toss until they’re evenly coated with the cheesy mixture.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lima beans are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baby Lima Bean and Mushroom Risotto
A rich and comforting risotto dish that combines the creamy texture of Arborio rice with the sweetness of baby lima beans and earthiness of mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup baby lima beans, fresh or frozen
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed, about 2 minutes.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, add baby lima beans and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes or until the rice is creamy and tender.
7. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Indian-Spiced Baby Lima Beans with Basmati Rice
This recipe combines the creamy texture of baby lima beans with the aromatic flavors of Indian spices, served over fluffy basmati rice. The result is a flavorful and nutritious side dish perfect for accompanying your favorite Indian-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup baby lima beans
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup basmati rice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the baby lima beans and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the beans, then sauté them with vegetable oil, chopped onion, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper until tender (about 10 minutes).
3. Cook basmati rice according to package instructions.
4. Serve the baby lima bean mixture over the cooked basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baby Lima Bean and Spinach Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the sweetness of baby lima beans with the earthiness of spinach, all wrapped up in a crunchy bell pepper package.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup cooked baby lima beans
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked baby lima beans, spinach leaves, and breadcrumbs.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the bean-spinach mixture, mounding it slightly.
4. Drizzle tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
6. Top with shredded cheese (if using) and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Tomato-Braised Baby Lima Beans with Fresh Basil
Savor the sweet and tangy flavor of baby lima beans slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce, finished with fresh basil for added depth and brightness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby lima beans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add baby lima beans, diced tomatoes, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Baby Lima Bean and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the tender goodness of baby lima beans. This recipe is perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup baby lima beans, fresh or frozen
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add baby lima beans to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Once sweet potatoes are done, add them to the skillet with the lima bean mixture. Toss gently to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking time: approximately 35-40 minutes.
Herbed Baby Lima Bean Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
A refreshing summer salad featuring tender baby lima beans, fragrant herbs, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup baby lima beans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the baby lima beans and cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
2. Drain the beans and rinse with cold water.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lima beans and herb mixture.
5. Whisk together lemon juice and white wine vinegar in a small bowl.
6. Pour the vinaigrette over the bean mixture and toss to coat.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of dried baby lima beans with these 18 delicious and comforting recipe ideas. From classic Southern-style dishes to international flavors, there’s something for everyone. Try slow-cooked baby lima beans with ham hock, garlic butter baby lima beans with fresh herbs, or creamy coconut curry baby lima beans. You’ll also find recipes like smoky bacon and baby lima bean stew, Mediterranean baby lima beans with tomatoes and olives, and many more. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking for a new twist on comfort food, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
