Quick and Nutritious Lima Bean Soup

Posté par Chef Power on pmAR

This Quick and Nutritious Lima Bean Soup is ideal for busy days when you need a wholesome meal. With a creamy texture and a blend of aromatic vegetables, this dish is both satisfying and visually appealing. Perfect for a light yet fulfilling lunch or dinner.

Serves: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

1 cup dried lima beans (or 2 cans of cooked lima beans, drained and rinsed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 bay leaf
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Cookware Needed

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Ladle
Serving bowls

Shop Cookware

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Lima Beans.

If using dried lima beans, rinse them under cold water and soak them in water overnight. Drain and set aside. If using canned beans, simply drain and rinse them.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables.

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices.

Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients.

Add the soaked and drained lima beans (or the canned beans) to the pot along with the vegetable broth and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the beans are tender. If using canned beans, simmer for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning.

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Step 7: Serve.

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy it warm with crusty bread or a side salad.

Variations

Spicy Version: Add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Creamy Version: Stir in a cup of coconut milk or heavy cream towards the end of cooking for a creamy texture.
Herb-Infused: Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for added greens.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate diced smoked sausage or bacon for a smoky twist.

This Quick and Nutritious Lima Bean Soup is a satisfying option for any meal. With its creamy texture and vibrant colors, it’s a perfect dish to warm you up on a cold day. Easy to prepare and rich in nutrients, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!