
Butter Bean
Butter beans, also known as lima beans, are creamy, pale green legumes prized for their delicate, buttery flavor and smooth, slightly starchy texture. These large, flat beans offer a mild, subtly sweet taste that complements a variety of dishes. Whether fresh, dried, or frozen, butter beans add a comforting and nutritious element to soups, stews, salads, and side dishes. Discover the versatility of butter beans and explore their culinary potential.
Common Uses
- Add butter beans to hearty vegetarian stews for a creamy texture and added protein; their mild flavor absorbs the flavors of the broth and other vegetables beautifully.
- Puree cooked butter beans with garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice to create a flavorful and healthy dip, perfect with crusty bread or raw vegetables.
- Incorporate butter beans into refreshing summer salads with tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs; their creamy texture balances the crisp vegetables.
- Sauté butter beans with pancetta, garlic, and herbs like sage or rosemary for a simple yet elegant side dish that showcases their buttery flavor.
- Use butter beans as a base for a creamy vegan pasta sauce; blend them with nutritional yeast, vegetable broth, and spices for a rich and satisfying meal.
- Mash cooked butter beans and mix them with breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices to form delicious and nutritious veggie burgers that are a great alternative to meat.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
121.0kcal (6.05%)
Protein
8.6g (17.18%)
Carbs
21.7g (7.89%)
Sugars
1.9g (3.74%)
Healthy Fat
0.2g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
121.0kcal (6.05%)
Protein
8.6g (17.18%)
Carbs
21.7g (7.89%)
Sugars
1.9g (3.74%)
Healthy Fat
0.2g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- Excellent source of plant-based protein for muscle building and repair.
- High in dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and preventing constipation.
- Rich in folate (vitamin B9), crucial for cell growth and development, especially during pregnancy.
- Provides essential minerals like iron for energy and preventing anemia.
- Contains potassium, which supports healthy blood pressure levels.
- May contribute to heart health due to its fiber and nutrient content.
Storage Tips
To maximize freshness, store dried butter beans in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place like a pantry. Properly stored, they can last for several years. Cooked butter beans should be refrigerated promptly in an airtight container and consumed within 3-4 days. You can also freeze cooked butter beans for longer storage; spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent clumping, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container once frozen. Frozen butter beans can last up to 6-8 months.
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