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Lima Bean
Legumes
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Lima Bean

Phaseolus lunatus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Lima beans are a nutritious legume known for their creamy texture and buttery flavor. They are rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy addition to various dishes.

Scientific NamePhaseolus lunatus
Region of OriginPeru
Popular Comparisons:
Lima Bean VS Acutifolius BeanLima Bean VS Adzuki BeanLima Bean VS Adzuki BeansLima Bean VS Red Adzuki BeansLima Bean VS Anasazi BeanLima Bean VS Anasazi Beans

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories113 kcal
Water
67%
Fiber7g
Total28.6g
Protein
7.8g(27%)
Fats
0.6g(2%)
Carbohydrates
20.2g(71%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Health Benefits

✓Lima beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
✓High in dietary fiber, they promote digestive health and help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
✓Rich in potassium, they support heart health by helping to regulate blood pressure.
✓Lima beans contain folate, which is crucial for DNA synthesis and repair, making them beneficial during pregnancy.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Raw lima beans contain cyanogenic compounds that can be toxic if not cooked properly.
!Some individuals may experience digestive discomfort due to the high fiber content.

How to Prepare & Consume

Lima beans should be soaked and cooked thoroughly to eliminate toxins. They can be enjoyed in soups, stews, or as a side dish.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose lima beans that are firm and free from blemishes. For dried beans, look for a uniform color and avoid any that are cracked or broken.

How to Store

Store dried lima beans in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Cooked beans should be refrigerated and consumed within 5 days.

Myths vs Realities

MythLima beans are poisonous.+
RealityOnly raw lima beans contain toxins; cooked lima beans are safe to eat.
MythAll beans are the same nutritionally.+
RealityDifferent beans have varying nutrient profiles; lima beans are particularly high in fiber.
MythEating beans causes gas for everyone.+
RealityWhile beans can cause gas in some individuals, soaking and cooking them properly can reduce this effect.

Healthy Recipes

Lima Bean and Quinoa Salad

A refreshing salad packed with protein from quinoa and fiber from lima beans, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked lima beans
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup diced cucumber
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked lima beans and quinoa.
  2. 2. Add diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
  3. 3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine.

Spicy Lima Bean Hummus

A zesty twist on traditional hummus, this spicy lima bean version is perfect for dipping or spreading.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked lima beans
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, combine all ingredients and blend until smooth.
  2. 2. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  3. 3. Serve with fresh vegetables or whole grain pita.

Lima Bean and Sweet Potato Stew

A hearty and nutritious stew combining the creaminess of lima beans with the sweetness of sweet potatoes.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked lima beans
  • 1 medium sweet potato, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  2. 2. Add sweet potato and vegetable broth, bring to a boil.
  3. 3. Stir in lima beans and thyme, simmer until sweet potatoes are tender.

Lima Bean Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These vibrant tacos are filled with seasoned lima beans and topped with a fresh avocado salsa for a healthy twist.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked lima beans
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat lima beans with chili powder and cumin until warmed through.
  2. 2. Warm corn tortillas in another pan.
  3. 3. Assemble tacos with lima beans and top with avocado salsa.

Lima Bean and Spinach Frittata

A protein-packed frittata that combines lima beans and spinach for a nutritious breakfast or brunch option.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked lima beans
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 6 eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a skillet, sauté spinach in olive oil until wilted.
  3. 3. Whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper, then stir in lima beans and spinach. Pour into a greased baking dish and top with feta. Bake until set.

Lima Bean and Roasted Vegetable Bowl

A nourishing bowl filled with roasted vegetables and protein-rich lima beans, drizzled with a tahini dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked lima beans
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon tahini
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 20 minutes.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix tahini with lemon juice and a little water to thin.
  3. 3. Serve roasted vegetables over lima beans and drizzle with tahini dressing.

Lima Bean and Brown Rice Pilaf

A flavorful pilaf combining earthy brown rice and creamy lima beans, perfect as a side dish or main course.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 cup cooked lima beans
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pan, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
  2. 2. Add brown rice, lima beans, vegetable broth, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Simmer until heated through and liquid is absorbed.

Lima Bean and Kale Stir-Fry

A quick and nutritious stir-fry featuring vibrant kale and protein-rich lima beans, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked lima beans
  • 2 cups chopped kale
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat sesame oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add bell pepper and kale, stir-fry until kale is wilted.
  3. 3. Stir in lima beans and soy sauce, cook until heated through, and garnish with sesame seeds.

Lima Bean and Tomato Bruschetta

A healthy appetizer featuring lima beans and fresh tomatoes on whole-grain toast, perfect for entertaining.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked lima beans
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Whole-grain bread slices
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix lima beans, tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Toast whole-grain bread slices.
  3. 3. Top toasted bread with the lima bean mixture and serve.

Lima Bean Soup with Herbs

A comforting and hearty soup featuring lima beans and fresh herbs, perfect for a cozy meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked lima beans
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1 teaspoon rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
  2. 2. Add vegetable broth, lima beans, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Simmer for 20 minutes, then blend for a creamy texture if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are lima beans healthy?

Yes, lima beans are rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthy choice.

How do you cook lima beans?

Soak dried lima beans overnight, then boil them for about 30-45 minutes until tender.

Can you eat lima beans raw?

No, raw lima beans contain toxins and should always be cooked before consumption.

What are the benefits of lima beans?

They provide protein, fiber, potassium, and folate, supporting overall health.

How can I incorporate lima beans into my diet?

Add them to salads, soups, or use them as a side dish.

Are lima beans gluten-free?

Yes, lima beans are naturally gluten-free.

How long do cooked lima beans last in the fridge?

Cooked lima beans can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Can lima beans help with weight loss?

Yes, their high fiber content can promote satiety and help with weight management.

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Comparisons
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Nutrients
Protein in Lima Bean Calories in Lima Bean Vitamin-c in Lima Bean Magnesium in Lima Bean
Featured Guides
Health Benefits of Lima Bean Healthy Recipes with Lima Bean