"Delicious and Nutritious Lima Bean Soup Recipe: A Comforting Delight for Every Season"

#### Introduction to Lima Bean Soup RecipeLima bean soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. This delightful soup f……

#### Introduction to Lima Bean Soup Recipe

Lima bean soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. This delightful soup features the creamy texture of lima beans, combined with a medley of vegetables and aromatic spices. Whether you're looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a healthy option for lunch, this lima bean soup recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.

#### Ingredients for Lima Bean Soup Recipe

To prepare this delicious lima bean soup, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 cup dried lima beans (or 2 cans of cooked lima beans)

- 1 onion, chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 carrots, diced

- 2 celery stalks, diced

- 1 bell pepper, chopped

- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

#### Preparation Steps for Lima Bean Soup Recipe

1. **Soak the Lima Beans**: If you are using dried lima beans, soak them in water overnight. This will help them cook faster and become tender. If you're using canned lima beans, you can skip this step.

2. **Sauté the Vegetables**: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic, diced carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

3. **Add the Lima Beans**: If you soaked the dried lima beans, drain and rinse them before adding them to the pot. If using canned beans, simply add them directly to the pot. Stir well to combine with the sautéed vegetables.

4. **Pour in the Broth**: Add the vegetable broth to the pot, followed by the dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes. If you used dried beans, you may need to simmer longer until they are tender.

5. **Blend (Optional)**: For a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup. This step is optional, as some may prefer a chunkier consistency.

6. **Serve and Garnish**: Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.

#### Health Benefits of Lima Bean Soup

Lima beans are packed with nutrients, making this soup not only delicious but also healthy. They are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. This soup is low in fat and can be easily adapted to fit various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan diets.

#### Conclusion

This lima bean soup recipe is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a favorite among families and friends. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a cozy dinner, this soup is sure to impress. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!