We’ve always been fans of the Lima Beans and Shrimp Recipe for its fresh, hearty vibe that brings together tender beans and succulent seafood in one satisfying dish. Originating from simple coastal influences, it’s a nutritious twist on everyday meals that packs protein and flavor without the fuss.
This easy recipe highlights how everyday ingredients can create something special, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. We’re excited to share our take on this crowd-pleaser, blending bold tastes that keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients
For our Lima Beans and Shrimp Recipe, we select fresh, high-quality ingredients that blend tender lima beans with succulent shrimp for a nutritious, flavorful dish packed with protein.
Here’s our curated list of ingredients, ordered by how we use them in preparation. We’ve noted specific prep details for accuracy and ease.
- Lima beans: 2 cups frozen lima beans (thawed and rinsed to remove any ice crystals, as we start by simmering them for even cooking).
- Shrimp: 1 pound medium shrimp (peeled and deveined, ready for quick sautéing to maintain their tender texture).
- Onion: 1 medium onion (finely chopped, as we use it first to build the base flavor in the pan).
- Garlic: 3 cloves garlic (minced, added shortly after the onion for aromatic depth without burning).
- Bell pepper: 1 large bell pepper (diced, incorporated next for added crunch and color).
- Tomatoes: 2 medium tomatoes (chopped, providing juiciness as we introduce them to create a simple sauce).
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (used for sautéing to keep the dish light and healthy).
- Chicken broth: 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (poured in to simmer the beans, enhancing flavor without overwhelming the shrimp).
- Spices: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper (combined and sprinkled in during cooking for bold, balanced seasoning).
This selection ensures our recipe is straightforward yet delivers maximum taste and nutrition.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our Lima Beans and Shrimp Recipe to life with ease and precision, we rely on a selection of essential tools that streamline preparation and enhance safety. These items help us handle the ingredients—from chopping onions and garlic to sautéing shrimp and beans—ensuring every step is efficient and enjoyable.
Must-Have Tools
We recommend the following tools, organized by their primary function in the recipe:
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp, 8-inch chef’s knife is indispensable for finely chopping the onion, mincing garlic, and dicing bell pepper and tomatoes. In our experience, a high-quality knife reduces prep time and minimizes injury risk.
- Cutting Board: Opt for a sturdy, non-slip cutting board (at least 12×18 inches) to provide a stable surface for all your chopping tasks. We always choose a wooden or plastic one to protect countertops and keep ingredients fresh.
- Large Skillet or Wok: A 12-inch non-stick skillet or wok with a lid is key for sautéing shrimp and simmering the lima beans with spices. This tool ensures even heat distribution, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly without sticking.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Use a heat-resistant wooden spoon for stirring the mixture of shrimp, beans, and broth. It’s gentle on non-stick surfaces and helps us achieve that ideal tender texture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate 1-cup and 1-tablespoon sets are crucial for measuring ingredients like olive oil, chicken broth, and spices. We emphasize precision to guarantee the recipe’s balanced flavors every time.
- Colander: A medium-sized colander is essential for draining and rinsing the thawed lima beans, removing excess water to prevent a watery dish.
Additional Tips for Efficiency
For optimal results, we suggest organizing these tools beforehand—a practice that keeps our kitchen workflow smooth. If you’re scaling the recipe for more servings, consider upgrading to larger versions of these items to handle increased quantities effectively.
Directions
We guide you through our straightforward Lima Beans and Shrimp Recipe steps to transform fresh ingredients into a flavorful, nutritious meal that highlights tender lima beans and succulent shrimp. Let’s ensure every step is precise for optimal taste and texture.
Prep
Before cooking, we prepare our ingredients to streamline the process and maximize flavors in this Lima Beans and Shrimp Recipe. Start by gathering all tools from our earlier list, such as the sharp chef’s knife and cutting board.
- Thaw and drain the lima beans: Place 2 cups of frozen lima beans in a colander and rinse under cold water until fully thawed; pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Prepare the vegetables: Finely chop 1 medium onion, mince 2 cloves of garlic, and dice 1 bell pepper into ½-inch pieces for even cooking.
- Chop the tomatoes: Cut 2 medium tomatoes into ½-inch cubes to release their juices and enhance the dish’s fresh, vibrant flavors.
- Measure spices and liquids: In separate bowls, measure 1 teaspoon of your preferred spices (like paprika or cumin for a bold kick), 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth to keep everything ready and accurate.
- Ready the shrimp: Ensure 1 pound of medium shrimp is peeled and deveined; rinse under cold water and pat dry to prevent splattering during cooking.
This prep phase sets the stage for a seamless cooking experience, focusing on the hearty qualities of lima beans paired with seafood.
Cook
We move to the cooking phase where we bring out the bold flavors of our Lima Beans and Shrimp Recipe through sautéing and simmering for a perfectly balanced dish.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil; swirl to coat the bottom evenly and wait until it shimmers for optimal searing.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the hot oil; stir frequently with a heat-resistant wooden spoon for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and release a fragrant aroma.
- Incorporate the beans: Pour in the 2 cups of prepared lima beans and 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth; bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes to allow the beans to absorb flavors and become tender.
- Add the shrimp: Gently stir in the 1 pound of prepared shrimp and your measured spices; cook uncovered for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque for a juicy, succulent texture.
- Mix in the tomatoes: Fold in the chopped tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes to blend the fresh, tangy juices with the other ingredients, creating a hearty and cohesive mixture.
Throughout this step, the sizzling sounds and savory scents will signal the dish’s progression, ensuring a protein-packed result.
Assemble
Finally, we assemble the components of our Lima Beans and Shrimp Recipe to achieve a visually appealing and delicious final product ready for serving.
- Combine thoroughly: Use a silicone spatula to gently toss all cooked elements together in the skillet, ensuring even distribution of shrimp, beans, and vegetables for a balanced bite in every serving.
- Season to taste: Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed, adding a pinch more spices for enhanced flavor while preserving the dish’s fresh and hearty essence.
- Rest briefly: Remove the skillet from heat and let the dish rest for 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld, resulting in a warm, inviting aroma that highlights the tender lima beans and succulent shrimp.
This assembly step completes the transformation of simple ingredients into a standout meal perfect for any occasion.
Make-Ahead Tips
To make our Lima Beans and Shrimp Recipe even more convenient for busy schedules, we recommend preparing key components in advance. This approach saves time while preserving the dish’s fresh flavors and hearty texture. Let’s break down the steps for efficient make-ahead preparation.
Prepping Ingredients Ahead
We suggest starting with the vegetables and beans, as these hold up well when stored properly:
- Thaw and drain lima beans: Rinse 2 cups of frozen lima beans under cold water, then drain them thoroughly. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain their tender crunch.
- Chop aromatics: Finely chop 1 medium onion, mince 2 cloves of garlic, and dice 1 bell pepper. Place these in a sealed bag or container in the fridge for up to 24 hours, ensuring they stay crisp and ready for sautéing.
- Prepare shrimp: Peel and devein 1 pound of medium shrimp, then pat them dry. For optimal freshness, store in the refrigerator for no more than 1 day or freeze for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before use to avoid any compromise in texture.
Cooking and Storing Components
Certain elements of the recipe can be partially cooked ahead to enhance efficiency without sacrificing the succulent seafood and bold flavors:
- Sauté vegetables in advance: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet, then cook the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened. Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This step allows the flavors to meld, making assembly quicker.
- Cook lima beans partially: Simmer the lima beans in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth for about 5 minutes until just tender. Let them cool, then refrigerate in the broth for up to 48 hours to lock in moisture and nutrients.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Proper storage is key to keeping our Lima Beans and Shrimp Recipe nutritious and delicious. Here’s how to handle it safely:
| Component | Storage Method | Maximum Time | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prepared Vegetables | Airtight container in fridge | 24 hours | Keep away from strong odors to preserve flavor. |
| Partially Cooked Beans | Sealed container with broth in fridge | 48 hours | Reheat gently to avoid mushiness. |
| Raw Shrimp | Refrigerator or freezer | 1 day (fridge) / 3 months (freezer) | Thaw in fridge, not at room temperature, for food safety. |
| Sautéed Mixture | Airtight container in fridge | 2 days | Stir before reheating to maintain even texture. |
By following these tips, we ensure that our Lima Beans and Shrimp Recipe remains a simple, flavorful option for any occasion. Always reheat components on medium heat and add fresh shrimp just before serving to keep the dish vibrant and safe.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored our Lima Beans and Shrimp Recipe with us. It’s a simple way to bring fresh, nutritious meals to your table that balance ease with bold flavors.
By incorporating everyday ingredients, we’ve shown how this dish fits seamlessly into busy lives while delivering satisfying results. Give it a try and make it your own for memorable gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Lima Beans and Shrimp Recipe?
This recipe combines tender lima beans with succulent shrimp for a fresh, hearty dish that’s nutritious and full of flavor. It’s an easy option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, using simple ingredients to deliver protein and bold tastes without much fuss. Perfect for anyone wanting a quick, satisfying meal.
What ingredients are needed for the Lima Beans and Shrimp Recipe?
You’ll need 2 cups of thawed frozen lima beans, 1 pound of peeled and deveined medium shrimp, a chopped medium onion, minced garlic, diced bell pepper, chopped tomatoes, olive oil, low-sodium chicken broth, and spices. These high-quality items ensure great taste and nutrition while keeping prep straightforward.
What tools are required to prepare the Lima Beans and Shrimp Recipe?
Essential tools include a sharp chef’s knife for chopping, a sturdy cutting board, a large non-stick skillet or wok for cooking, a heat-resistant spoon or spatula for stirring, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, and a colander for draining. Organize them ahead to make the process efficient and safe.
How do I cook the Lima Beans and Shrimp Recipe?
Start by prepping ingredients: thaw and drain beans, chop veggies, and prepare shrimp. Sauté aromatics like onion and garlic in olive oil, add beans and broth, then incorporate shrimp and tomatoes. Cook until shrimp are done and flavors meld. It’s a simple, step-by-step process for a delicious result in under 30 minutes.
Can I make the Lima Beans and Shrimp Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prep components in advance: thaw and drain beans, chop veggies, and ready shrimp, storing them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You can partially cook veggies and beans to save time, but add fresh shrimp just before serving. Follow storage guidelines to keep everything fresh and flavorful for reheating.
Is the Lima Beans and Shrimp Recipe healthy?
Absolutely, it’s packed with protein from shrimp and beans, plus veggies for vitamins and fiber. Using low-sodium broth and olive oil keeps it nutritious without sacrificing taste. It’s a balanced meal option that supports a healthy diet, ideal for everyday eating.
How many people does the Lima Beans and Shrimp Recipe serve?
This recipe typically serves 4 people as a main dish, depending on portion sizes. You can scale it up by doubling ingredients and using larger tools for bigger groups, making it versatile for family dinners or gatherings while keeping prep easy.