Updated November 5, 2025 ~ On a plant-based diet, you don’t need it to be cold weather or the holiday season to enjoy Christmas Lima Bean Soup!
Christmas lima bean soup is one of my favorite plant-based comfort meals year-round. These beautiful red-and-white heirloom beans, sometimes referred to as chestnut lima beans, cook into a creamy, cozy vegan soup that’s naturally high in protein and fiber. If you’re curious how to cook Christmas lima beans or looking for the best Christmas lima bean recipe, this bowl is nourishing, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.
Lately, I’ve been loving these bigger style beans because they’re hearty and filled with protein. These heirloom-variety beans have a chestnut flavor and are both satisfying and beautiful (with their decorative swirled pattern) and meaty texture.
The beans were native to the high Andean plains of Peru and brought to the U.S. in the mid-19th century.
For me, Christmas Lima Bean Soup is perfect topped with avocado, salsa, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. I also sometimes toss some sunflower or sesame seeds on top. Delicious!
But, you can also drain the beans and put them in a salad to make it more hearty. So, try them straight up or tossed, you’ll love ’em!
You can get Christmas Lima Beans typically from specialty stores—this is the brand I used: Organic Christmas Lima Beans on Amazon
What Are Christmas Lima Beans?
Christmas lima beans (also called chestnut lima beans) are a beautiful heirloom bean known for their creamy texture and nutty, almost chestnut-like flavor. Unlike regular lima beans, they hold their shape well and become rich and velvety when cooked — perfect for soups, stews, and even salads. Their festive maroon-and-white pattern makes them a fun ingredient to feature year-round.
🌿 Health Benefits of Christmas Lima Beans
- High in fiber: Supports gut health and digestion. (Read more in my post: Plant-Based Diet for Gut Health)
- Rich in plant-based protein: Great for vegan and vegetarian diets and keeps you full longer.
- Heart-healthy nutrients: Packed with magnesium, potassium, and iron.
- Low in fat and cholesterol-free: Naturally supports heart and colon health.
- Great for meal prep: The fiber and protein combo helps balance energy throughout the day.
Variation: Christmas Lima Bean Salad
If you have leftovers, try turning this soup into a salad! Drain the beans and toss with olive oil, vinegar, fresh herbs, and diced vegetables for a hearty, protein-rich side dish.
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Organic Christmas Lima Beans
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1
Le Creuset Dutch Oven — I love the cerise color — have the whole collection!
High-Protein Vegetable Broth
Glass Meal Prep Containers
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and protein-rich
- Family-friendly and freezer-ready
- Perfect for cozy nights or meal prep
- Packed with fiber and nutrients for a happy gut
Ready to eat more plant-powered meals? Join my 30-Day Plant-Based Challenge to make healthy eating simple and sustainable.
Year-Round Christmas Lima Bean Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound Christmas Lima Beans (about 2 1/2 cups) be sure to sort them
- 5 cups of water or vegetable broth
- 2 cloves crushed garlic
- Sea salt about a teaspoon or to taste
Instructions
- Sort and throw away any dirt or stones. Soak the beans the night before. Fill a bowl with the beans and enough water to cover them
- Next day, discard the water
- Add beans to a large pot
- Add vegetable broth and sea salt, bring to boil and then simmer on low heat until tender
- Serve with all the toppings: cilantro, avocado, seeds, and enjoy!
