Mediterranean-Inspired Lima Bean Salad with Feta and Oδ
Lima beans are a criminally underused bean, but this salad is here to change that. With a bright, Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile and a creamy texture, this salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The feta cheese adds a salty tang, while the red onion and parsley add a bit of crunch and freshness. The oregano adds a subtle earthiness, and the olive oil and red wine vinegar bring it all together.
Lima beans have been cultivated in the Mediterranean region for centuries, and they were a staple food in ancient Rome. They were also brought to the Americas by Spanish explorers, and they quickly became a popular ingredient in Creole and Cajun cuisine. However, lima beans have fallen out of favor in recent years, as they have been replaced by more popular beans, such as kidney beans and black beans. This salad is an attempt to revive the lima bean and show it off in all its glory.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 60 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 cup dried lima beans
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup chopped red onion
1/2 cup chopped parsley
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Rinse the lima beans and pick over to remove any debris.
Place the beans in a large pot and cover with water.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
Drain the beans and let them cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the beans, feta cheese, red onion, parsley, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Toss to combine and serve immediately.
Why It Works
The combination of lima beans, feta cheese, red onion, parsley, olive oil, and red wine vinegar creates a bright and flavorful salad that is both satisfying and refreshing.
The lima beans provide a creamy texture and a nutty flavor, while the feta cheese adds a salty tang.
The red onion and parsley add a bit of crunch and freshness, and the oregano adds a subtle earthiness.
The olive oil and red wine vinegar bring it all together, creating a flavorful dressing that coats the beans and vegetables.