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Lima Butter Bean
Legumes
Nutri-ScoreA

Lima Butter Bean

Phaseolus lunatus

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Scientifically reviewed by:Dra. Sofía Méndez (Clinical Nutritionist)
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Lima Butter Bean provides 113 kcal, 7.8g of protein, 20.2g of carbohydrates, and 7g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Lima butter beans are a nutritious legume known for their creamy texture and rich flavor. They are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Also known as:
Butter BeanSieva Bean
Scientific NamePhaseolus lunatus
Region of OriginPeru
Popular Comparisons:
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Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories113 kcal
Water
68%
Fiber7g
Total28.5g
Protein
7.8g(27%)
Fats
0.5g(2%)
Carbohydrates
20.2g(71%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin C2 mg (2%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (5%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Potassium508 mg (14%)
Magnesium37 mg (9%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

✓Rich in dietary fiber, lima butter beans promote digestive health and help maintain a healthy weight by increasing satiety.
✓High in protein, they serve as a great plant-based protein source, supporting muscle repair and growth.
✓Packed with potassium, they help regulate blood pressure and support cardiovascular health.
✓Contain antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Excessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort due to their high fiber content.
!Some individuals may experience allergic reactions; consult a healthcare provider if unsure.

How to Prepare & Consume

Soak dried beans overnight and cook them thoroughly to enhance digestibility. They can be added to soups, stews, or salads.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose firm, plump beans without any discoloration or blemishes. For dried beans, ensure they are stored in a cool, dry place.

How to Store

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

Myths vs Realities

MythLima beans are toxic and should never be eaten.
RealityWhile raw lima beans contain toxins, cooking them properly eliminates these risks.
MythEating beans will make you gassy.
RealityWhile beans can cause gas, gradual introduction into the diet can help your body adjust.
MythAll beans are the same nutritionally.
RealityDifferent beans have varying nutrient profiles; lima beans are particularly high in fiber and protein.

Healthy Recipes

Lima Butter Bean and Quinoa Salad

A refreshing salad combining protein-rich quinoa and creamy lima butter beans, tossed with fresh vegetables and a zesty lemon dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked lima butter beans
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lima butter beans, quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss gently, and serve chilled.

Spicy Lima Butter Bean Hummus

A healthy twist on traditional hummus, this version uses lima butter beans for a creamy texture and is spiced with garlic and cayenne.

Ingredients
  • 1 can (15 oz) lima butter beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, combine the lima butter beans, tahini, olive oil, garlic, cayenne, lemon juice, and salt.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to reach desired consistency.
  3. 3. Serve with fresh vegetables or whole-grain pita chips.

Lima Butter Bean and Spinach Stew

A hearty and nutritious stew featuring lima butter beans and fresh spinach, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup lima butter beans, soaked overnight and drained
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and garlic until softened.
  2. 2. Add the soaked lima butter beans, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
  3. 3. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, then stir in the spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Lima Butter Bean Tacos

These vibrant tacos are filled with seasoned lima butter beans and topped with fresh avocado and cilantro for a delicious plant-based meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 can (15 oz) lima butter beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat the lima butter beans over medium heat and add chili powder and cumin. Cook until heated through.
  2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
  3. 3. Assemble the tacos by filling each tortilla with seasoned beans, avocado slices, and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Lima Butter Bean and Roasted Vegetable Bowl

A nourishing bowl filled with roasted vegetables and lima butter beans, drizzled with a tahini dressing for added flavor.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup lima butter beans, cooked
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the zucchini, bell pepper, and broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on a baking sheet.
  2. 2. Roast the vegetables for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly charred.
  3. 3. In a bowl, combine the roasted vegetables, lima butter beans, tahini, and lemon juice. Toss to combine and serve warm.

Lima Butter Bean and Sweet Potato Mash

A creamy and nutritious mash made with lima butter beans and sweet potatoes, perfect as a side dish or a healthy spread.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup lima butter beans, cooked
  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions
  1. 1. Boil the sweet potato cubes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
  2. 2. Add the cooked lima butter beans, olive oil, salt, pepper, and nutmeg to the sweet potatoes.
  3. 3. Mash together until smooth and creamy. Serve warm.

Lima Butter Bean and Kale Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring lima butter beans and kale, packed with flavor and nutrients.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup lima butter beans, cooked
  • 2 cups kale, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and bell pepper, sautéing until softened.
  2. 2. Stir in the kale and cooked lima butter beans, cooking until the kale is wilted.
  3. 3. Add the soy sauce and sesame seeds, tossing to combine. Serve warm.

Lima Butter Bean and Avocado Toast

A delicious and nutritious twist on avocado toast, topped with creamy lima butter beans and a sprinkle of chili flakes.

Ingredients
  • 2 slices whole-grain bread
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1/2 cup lima butter beans, cooked
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chili flakes for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Toast the whole-grain bread until golden brown.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mash the avocado and season with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. Spread the mashed avocado on the toast, top with lima butter beans, and sprinkle with chili flakes before serving.

Lima Butter Bean and Tomato Soup

A comforting and hearty soup made with lima butter beans and ripe tomatoes, perfect for a light meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 can (15 oz) lima butter beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups diced tomatoes
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add the diced tomatoes, lima butter beans, vegetable broth, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
  3. 3. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Blend if desired for a smoother texture.

Lima Butter Bean and Herb Frittata

A protein-packed frittata featuring lima butter beans and fresh herbs, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup lima butter beans, cooked
  • 6 eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup spinach, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or chives)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
  3. 3. Stir in the lima butter beans and fresh herbs, then pour the egg mixture over the top. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the edges set, then transfer to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until fully set.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are lima butter beans?

Lima butter beans are a type of legume known for their flat, oval shape and creamy texture, often used in various dishes.

How do I cook lima butter beans?

Soak dried beans overnight, then boil them for about 45 minutes to an hour until tender.

Are lima butter beans healthy?

Yes, they are high in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a healthy addition to a balanced diet.

Can I eat lima butter beans raw?

No, raw lima beans contain toxins that can be harmful; they must be cooked thoroughly.

How can I store cooked lima butter beans?

Store cooked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.

What dishes can I make with lima butter beans?

They can be used in soups, salads, casseroles, or as a side dish.

Do lima butter beans have gluten?

No, lima butter beans are gluten-free and suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

How do lima butter beans compare to other beans?

Lima butter beans are creamier and have a slightly sweeter taste compared to other beans like black beans or kidney beans.

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Comparisons
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Nutrients
Protein in Lima Butter Bean Calories in Lima Butter Bean Vitamin-c in Lima Butter Bean Magnesium in Lima Butter Bean
Featured Guides
Health Benefits of Lima Butter Bean Healthy Recipes with Lima Butter Bean
Rankings
Legumes high in fiber Legumes high in protein Legumes low in carbohidratos Legumes low in índice glucémico