🍅Mediterranean Lima Bean Stew – A Flavorful, Low-Carb Twist on Italian Comfort Food

I had some beans, leftover chicken stock, and frozen red sauce. Just combine it all and simmer for about one hour.

When I crave the comfort of an authentic Italian meal but want to skip the carbs, I turn to this Mediterranean Lima Bean Stew. It’s rich, hearty, and full of the deep flavors I associate with slow-cooked pasta sauces. Instead of reaching for spaghetti or penne, I let tender, creamy lima beans soak up all the deliciousness.

Lima beans (or any beans you have on hand) create a satisfying base that mimics the texture and heartiness of a traditional pasta dish without the glycemic spike. They hold onto the broth’s flavors beautifully, making each bite feel just as indulgent as a forkful of pasta. The addition of dill and paprika adds a slight twist, giving this dish a Mediterranean feel that’s comforting yet fresh.

Why This Works as a Pasta Alternative

1. Beans Absorb Flavors Like Pasta Does – Just like pasta soaks up sauces, lima beans act as little flavor sponges, making each bite taste rich and deeply seasoned.

2. A Hearty, Satisfying Texture – Unlike zoodles or spaghetti squash, beans bring a hearty bite that makes the dish feel substantial.

3. Naturally Low-Carb & High-Fiber – Swapping beans for pasta lowers the carb count while keeping the meal filling and nourishing.

4. Pairs Well with Italian Classics – Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, or alongside a piece of crusty whole-grain bread for an experience that feels straight out of a rustic Italian kitchen.

   
   

How I Serve It

• As a Pasta Replacement – Instead of plating up a bowl of spaghetti, I serve this stew in a wide, shallow bowl, sometimes topped with fresh basil or a dollop of ricotta for a little extra creaminess.

• With a Side of Greens – A simple side salad with lemon and olive oil balances the heartiness of the beans.

Mediterranean Lima Bean Stew Recipe

A comforting and flavorful stew packed with wholesome ingredients, perfect for a cozy meal.

Ingredients

·       2 cups presoaked lima beans

·       1 onion, minced

·       2 carrots, minced

·       2 celery stalks, minced

·       1 teaspoon minced garlic

·       3 cups chicken or vegetable stock

·       1 cup tomato sauce

·       1 teaspoon thyme

·       1 teaspoon paprika

·       ½ teaspoon oregano

·       ½ teaspoon dill

·       1 bay leaf

·       Salt and pepper, to taste

·       Olive oil, for sautéing

Directions

1. Soak the Beans – Soak lima beans overnight in water, then drain and rinse before using.

2. Sauté the Vegetables – In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

3. Add Garlic and Spices – Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, paprika, oregano, and dill. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Simmer the Stew – Add the soaked lima beans, stock, tomato sauce, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle simmer.

5. Cook – Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, then cover and continue cooking for another 30 minutes until beans are tender.

6. Season and Serve – Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.

   
   

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