Are you craving a hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy dish that evokes the warmth of Southern hospitality? Look no further! This creamy Southern lima bean recipe is a delicious and comforting meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and is surprisingly quick to make, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can lima beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a vegan option
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional additions: 1/2 cup cooked ham or bacon, 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a wonderful base of flavor for your delicious dish.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Add the drained and rinsed lima beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. This allows the beans to absorb the broth and become tender.
Step 3: Creamy Perfection
Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream), salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded beautifully.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley and optionally, a sprinkle of grated cheddar cheese or crumbled bacon/ham for added protein and flavor. This simple yet satisfying dish is perfect on its own or served alongside cornbread or biscuits for a complete Southern meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Lima Beans:
- Don't overcook the beans: Overcooked lima beans can become mushy. Aim for tender but not falling-apart consistency.
- Fresh herbs make a difference: Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh element that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it entirely.
- Experiment with add-ins: Get creative! Consider adding other vegetables like diced carrots or celery, or different proteins like smoked sausage or shredded chicken.
Variations:
- Spicy Lima Beans: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Cheesy Lima Beans: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Bacon-enhanced Lima Beans: Crumble cooked bacon over the top before serving for a smoky, savory twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 (depending on additions)
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This easy, healthy meal, brimming with Southern charm, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect example of how delicious dishes can also be simple and quick to prepare. Try this recipe tonight and discover a new favorite among your healthy meals and best recipes! Enjoy!