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Christmas Lima Beans
Legumes
Nutri-ScoreA

Christmas Lima Beans

Phaseolus lunatus

Clinical Encyclopedia

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

Christmas Lima Beans provides 130 kcal, 8g of protein, 24g of carbohydrates, and 7g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Christmas Lima Beans are a unique variety of lima beans known for their speckled appearance and creamy texture. They are rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a nutritious addition to various dishes.

Also known as:
Lima BeansSpeckled Lima Beans
Scientific NamePhaseolus lunatus
Region of OriginPeru
Popular Comparisons:
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Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories130 kcal
Water
10%
Fiber7g
Total32.5g
Protein
8g(25%)
Fats
0.5g(2%)
Carbohydrates
24g(74%)

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)
Iron2.5 mg (14%)
Magnesium40 mg (10%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

✓Rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
✓High in protein, making them an excellent plant-based protein source for vegetarians and vegans.
✓Contains essential minerals like iron and magnesium, which are crucial for energy production and muscle function.
✓Low glycemic index helps in managing blood sugar levels, making them suitable for diabetics.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!May cause digestive discomfort in some individuals due to their high fiber content.
!Raw or undercooked beans contain toxins that can cause nausea and vomiting; always cook thoroughly.

How to Prepare & Consume

Soak overnight and cook thoroughly to eliminate toxins. They can be used in soups, stews, or salads.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose beans that are firm and free from cracks or blemishes. Look for vibrant colors and avoid any that are shriveled.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Cooked beans can be refrigerated for up to a week.

Myths vs Realities

MythBeans cause gas and should be avoided.
RealityWhile beans can cause gas, soaking and cooking them properly can minimize this effect.
MythAll beans are the same nutritionally.
RealityDifferent beans have varying nutritional profiles; Christmas Lima Beans are particularly high in fiber and protein.
MythYou can't eat beans if you're on a low-carb diet.
RealityBeans can be included in moderation on low-carb diets due to their low glycemic index.

Healthy Recipes

Christmas Lima Bean Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

A refreshing salad featuring Christmas Lima beans, mixed greens, and a zesty citrus vinaigrette, perfect for a light lunch or side dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked Christmas Lima beans
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Add the cooked Christmas Lima beans to the salad, drizzle with the vinaigrette, and toss gently to combine.

Spicy Christmas Lima Bean Chili

A hearty and spicy chili made with Christmas Lima beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup dried Christmas Lima beans, soaked overnight
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened.
  2. 2. Add soaked Christmas Lima beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour or until beans are tender.

Christmas Lima Bean and Quinoa Bowl

A nutritious bowl packed with protein from quinoa and Christmas Lima beans, topped with roasted vegetables and a tahini dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup cooked Christmas Lima beans
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Water to thin dressing
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss zucchini, bell pepper, and carrot with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 20 minutes.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa and Christmas Lima beans.
  3. 3. Drizzle tahini dressing over the quinoa and beans, top with roasted vegetables, and serve.

Creamy Christmas Lima Bean Soup

A velvety soup made with pureed Christmas Lima beans, garlic, and herbs, offering a comforting and nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked Christmas Lima beans
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
  2. 2. Add cooked Christmas Lima beans, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper, and bring to a boil.
  3. 3. Blend the soup until smooth, return to heat, and stir in coconut milk before serving.

Christmas Lima Bean Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Delicious tacos filled with spiced Christmas Lima beans and topped with a fresh avocado salsa for a healthy twist on a classic dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked Christmas Lima beans
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat cooked Christmas Lima beans with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until warmed through.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine avocado, tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt to make the salsa.
  3. 3. Warm the tortillas, fill with the spiced beans, and top with avocado salsa before serving.

Christmas Lima Bean and Spinach Stuffed Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of Christmas Lima beans, spinach, and spices, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 cup cooked Christmas Lima beans
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix together cooked Christmas Lima beans, spinach, brown rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Stuff the halved bell peppers with the mixture and place in a baking dish.
  3. 3. Top with marinara sauce and bake for 25-30 minutes until peppers are tender.

Christmas Lima Bean Hummus

A creamy and nutritious hummus made from Christmas Lima beans, tahini, and garlic, perfect for dipping or spreading.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked Christmas Lima beans
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
  • Water as needed
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, combine cooked Christmas Lima beans, tahini, olive oil, garlic, 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.

Christmas Lima Bean and Sweet Potato Hash

A vibrant and hearty hash made with roasted sweet potatoes, Christmas Lima beans, and spices, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 sweet potato, diced
  • 1 cup cooked Christmas Lima beans
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss sweet potato with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper, and roast for 25 minutes.
  2. 2. In a skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper until softened, then add cooked Christmas Lima beans and roasted sweet potatoes.
  3. 3. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.

Christmas Lima Bean and Kale Stir-Fry

A quick and nutritious stir-fry featuring Christmas Lima beans and kale, tossed in a savory soy sauce and sesame dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked Christmas Lima beans
  • 2 cups kale, chopped
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add kale and carrot, stir-frying until kale is wilted.
  3. 3. Stir in cooked Christmas Lima beans and soy sauce, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, then sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Christmas Lima Bean and Brown Rice Casserole

A wholesome casserole combining Christmas Lima beans, brown rice, and vegetables, baked to create a comforting family meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked Christmas Lima beans
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup cauliflower florets
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix together cooked Christmas Lima beans, brown rice, broccoli, cauliflower, vegetable broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with cheese if using.
  3. 3. Bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are Christmas Lima Beans?

Christmas Lima Beans are a variety of lima beans characterized by their speckled appearance and creamy texture.

How do I cook Christmas Lima Beans?

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

Are Christmas Lima Beans healthy?

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

Can I eat Christmas Lima Beans raw?

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

How do I store Christmas Lima Beans?

Store dried beans in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

What dishes can I make with Christmas Lima Beans?

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

Are there any allergens associated with Christmas Lima Beans?

They are generally safe but may cause allergic reactions in some individuals sensitive to legumes.

How do Christmas Lima Beans compare to other beans?

They have a unique flavor and texture, with a creamier consistency compared to other beans like black or kidney beans.

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