Get ready to unlock the magic of authentic Greek comfort food with this mouthwatering Baked Lima Beans recipe that's about to revolutionize your dinner table! Imagine a dish so rich in flavor and tradition that it feels like you've been instantly transported to a cozy Greek taverna, with every bite telling a story of Mediterranean culinary excellence. This isn't just another bean recipe – it's a culinary journey that combines simple ingredients with time-honored cooking techniques to create something truly extraordinary.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups lima beans, soaked overnight
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the lima beans that have been soaked overnight, ensuring they are clean and well-prepared.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), creating a warm environment for baking the beans.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, releasing the aromatic flavors without burning.
- Transfer the soaked lima beans to a large baking dish, spreading them evenly across the bottom.
- Pour the sautéed onion and garlic mixture over the beans, ensuring even distribution.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes, spreading them across the top of the beans.
- Sprinkle dried oregano, salt, and pepper over the beans, gently mixing to combine all ingredients.
- Pour enough water or vegetable broth to just cover the beans, which will help them cook evenly and remain moist.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap moisture and prevent excessive drying.
- Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until beans are tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Remove the foil during the last 15 minutes of cooking to allow the top to slightly brown and develop a crispy texture.
- Once done, remove from oven and let the dish rest for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving, adding a bright, fresh element to the dish.
- Serve warm as a main course or side dish, optionally accompanied by crusty bread or a Greek salad.
Tips
- Soaking is Crucial: Always soak your lima beans overnight to ensure even cooking and improve digestibility. This step is non-negotiable for achieving that perfect, creamy texture.
- Don't Rush the Sautéing: Take your time caramelizing the onions and garlic. The slow cooking develops a deeper, richer flavor base for the entire dish.
- Liquid is Key: Make sure to add just enough water or vegetable broth to cover the beans. Too little liquid will result in dry beans, while too much will make them mushy.
- Foil Technique Matters: Using foil for most of the cooking time helps retain moisture, then removing it at the end creates a delightful crispy top layer.
- Freshness Counts: Use fresh parsley for garnishing – it adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, hearty beans.
- Let it Rest: The 10-minute resting period after cooking is crucial. It allows the flavors to meld and the beans to settle, creating a more cohesive and delicious dish.Pro Serving Suggestion: Pair this dish with a crisp Greek salad and some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce for a complete Mediterranean meal that will transport you straight to the Greek islands!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
