Lima Beans Recipe

Transform simple lima beans into a vibrant dish with zesty lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs. This quick, healthy recipe is perfect as a side or light main, packed with bold, fresh flavors everyone will love.

When it comes to a dish that’s bright, herby, and packed with comforting flavors, Lemon Garlic Lima Beans with Fresh Herbs checks every box. This recipe transforms simple lima beans into a gourmet side or light main dish.

Think buttery beans coated in a zesty lemon-garlic sauce, topped with fragrant fresh herbs. The balance of citrusy tang and savory richness will have you craving another bite before you even finish the first. If you're looking for a dish that's nutritious, versatile, and a total crowd-pleaser, you’ve found it.

What Are Lemon Garlic Lima Beans?

Lima beans, often overshadowed by flashier legumes, are a creamy, nutrient-packed bean that deserves more attention. This recipe celebrates their subtle, nutty flavor with bold accents of lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs. The combination makes the beans feel fresh and vibrant rather than heavy.

This Mediterranean-inspired variation is simple yet packed with complex flavors. Unlike many other lima bean recipes, which rely heavily on creamy sauces, this dish is light and healthy. It’s also vegan-friendly, making it perfect for everyone at the table.

You might also want to explore other fresh, herb-forward dishes like this Frittata Recipe Using Turnips and Potatoes or the vibrant Tajin Sorbet for more recipe ideas that celebrate fresh ingredients.

Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Lima Beans

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create something extraordinary. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

1. Lima Beans

Fresh lima beans are best when in season, but frozen lima beans work wonderfully too. Frozen beans are already blanched, which saves time. For dried lima beans, soak them overnight and cook until tender before starting the recipe.

2. Olive Oil

Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a rich, fruity base. It enhances the garlic and herbs while adding a silky finish.

3. Garlic

Fresh garlic is essential. Minced garlic sautés beautifully, infusing the oil with its aroma.

4. Lemon

The zest and juice of a fresh lemon brighten the entire dish. Meyer lemons can add a slightly sweeter touch if you prefer.

5. Fresh Herbs

Parsley and dill bring freshness and complexity. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like mint or chives for a different twist.

6. Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)

For a subtle kick, red pepper flakes are a game-changer. They add warmth without overwhelming the flavors.

Check out these Big Benny Bao Buns for another dish that incorporates fresh herbs in an innovative way.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish fits seamlessly into any spread, whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a celebratory feast.
• Healthy and Light: Lima beans are packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients.
• Quick to Prepare: With minimal prep and a 20-minute cook time, this is a fast yet impressive dish.
• Versatile: Serve as a side dish, a topping for toast, or a main course with a crusty baguette.

For an event like a spring brunch or summer potluck, this dish is unbeatable. Pair it with something indulgent like Snickers Strawberry Cheesecake for dessert, and your menu will be unforgettable.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Lima Beans

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

If using fresh lima beans, boil them in salted water for 15-20 minutes until tender. For frozen beans, cook according to the package instructions. Dried beans require soaking overnight and simmering until soft. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Infuse the Oil

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooked lima beans to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the garlicky oil. Sprinkle in the lemon zest, juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to distribute the flavors.

Step 4: Add Fresh Herbs

Remove the skillet from the heat and fold in the parsley and dill. These delicate herbs lose their vibrancy when overcooked, so it’s best to add them at the end.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Skip the Lemon Zest: The zest contains essential oils that add depth of flavor.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs don’t provide the same brightness.
• Serve Immediately: The dish is best enjoyed warm for maximum flavor and aroma.

For more side dishes that bring bold flavors to the table, try these recipes:

• Air Fryer Crunchy Cream Potatoes
• Chicken Shack Coleslaw Copycat Recipe

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish alongside grilled fish, roasted chicken, or even as part of a vegetarian platter with hummus and pita bread. You can also pair it with Captain D's Slaw for a complete meal.

The fresh, zesty flavors make it ideal for spring and summer gatherings. Plus, it’s an easy make-ahead option that tastes just as good at room temperature.

Lemon Garlic Lima Beans with Fresh Herbs

This vibrant recipe combines tender lima beans with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs for a flavorful and versatile dish that’s perfect as a side or light main course.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh or frozen lima beans
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. If using fresh lima beans, boil them in salted water for 15-20 minutes until tender. For frozen lima beans, cook according to package instructions.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the cooked lima beans to the skillet and stir to coat them with the garlicky oil.
4. Season with lemon zest, juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Remove from heat and fold in the parsley and dill for a fresh, herby finish.
6. Serve warm as a side dish or chilled as a salad topping.

10 minutes prep time with 20 minutes cook time.

Serves 4 and contains approximately 180 calories per serving.

Mediterranean / Side Dish, Vegetarian

Rated 4.8 by 215 reviewers.

Recipe Tags: lima beans recipe, lemon garlic lima beans, vegetarian side dish, Mediterranean recipe, easy lima bean recipe

Published by: Show Recipe