Sour Cream Lima Beans
A creamy, savory dish featuring tender lima beans cooked with bacon, celery, and onion, finished with sour cream for a rich, comforting flavor perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook lima beans for half the time directed on the package; drain and reserve 1/4 cup of the broth.
- Place diced raw bacon in the reserved broth and cook until bacon is crispy.
- Add drained lima beans to the bacon and broth mixture; cook on low heat until beans are almost tender.
- Stir in minced celery, minced onion, and salt; cook for 5 minutes more.
- Stir in sour cream and cook until hot, but do not boil.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon instead of raw bacon. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the bacon with a little liquid smoke or smoked paprika. Make sure to not overcook the lima beans; they should be tender but still hold their shape. Additionally, you can add a splash of lemon juice for a fresh contrast to the creamy sour cream.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sour cream lima beans as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. They pair beautifully with dishes like Ronnie'S Corn Casserole. For a complete meal, consider serving them with crusty bread or over rice to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the beans in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess. Avoid boiling to prevent the sour cream from curdling.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sour Cream Lima Beans contains roughly 105 calories, with 5g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1958mg per serving (85% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh lima beans instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh lima beans. Just be sure to cook them until they're tender before adding them to the bacon and broth mixture. Fresh beans may require a bit more cooking time than frozen.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you're looking for a substitute for sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. Alternatively, a mixture of cream cheese and a little milk can also work well.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the lima beans and bacon mixture ahead of time. Just store it separately from the sour cream. When ready to serve, reheat the beans and stir in the sour cream just before serving to keep it creamy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).