Name: Succotash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups lima beans (fresh, frozen, or canned); 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned); 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional); 2 tbsp butter or olive oil; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional); 1/2 cup cooked bacon or smoked sausage, crumbled (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Succotash is vibrant, healthy, and incredibly simple to prepare. It brings together sweet, savory, and buttery flavors in one comforting dish. It’s naturally vegetarian (and easy to make vegan), gluten-free, and can be served hot or cold. Whether you’re making it for a summer cookout or a cozy fall dinner, succotash is a versatile side that adds freshness and texture to your table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Lima beans (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Red bell pepper, diced
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Cherry tomatoes (optional)
Butter or olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil, optional)
Bacon or smoked sausage (optional for non-vegetarian version)

Directions

If using fresh or frozen lima beans, boil them in salted water for 8–10 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft.
Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in corn, cooked lima beans, and cherry tomatoes if using. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove from heat and stir in fresh herbs if desired.
Serve warm, or let cool and serve as a chilled salad.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4–6 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Southern-style: Add crumbled cooked bacon or a splash of cream for extra richness.
Spicy version: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Vegan: Use olive oil instead of butter and skip any meat add-ins.
Protein boost: Stir in diced ham, smoked sausage, or shredded chicken.
Add greens: Toss in chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover succotash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. It can also be enjoyed cold as a refreshing salad-style side.

Succotash can be frozen for up to 2 months, though the texture of some vegetables may soften slightly when thawed. Reheat from frozen or thaw in the fridge overnight before warming.

FAQs

What is succotash made of?

The classic version includes lima beans and corn, often with onion, bell pepper, and sometimes tomatoes or herbs.

Is succotash a side dish or a main dish?

Traditionally a side dish, but it can be a light main when served with added protein like bacon, sausage, or tofu.

Can I use canned vegetables?

Yes, just drain and rinse them well. Fresh or frozen ingredients will give better texture.

What’s the origin of succotash?

Succotash originates from Native American cuisine and was adopted and adapted in early American cooking.

Is succotash gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free, as long as all added ingredients are free from gluten.

Can I make succotash ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well and can also be served cold, making it perfect for meal prep.

What are good pairings for succotash?

It goes great with grilled meats, fish, fried chicken, or barbecued dishes.

Do I have to use lima beans?

Lima beans are traditional, but you can substitute with edamame, black beans, or even chickpeas.

How do I make it creamy?

Add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese in the final minutes of cooking.

Can I serve succotash cold?

Yes, it makes a great cold salad—just chill it after cooking and serve straight from the fridge.

Conclusion

Succotash is a bright, flavorful, and wholesome dish that brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both rustic and refreshing. Whether you enjoy it as a warm side or a cold salad, it’s a delicious celebration of vegetables that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying. A timeless recipe with deep roots, succotash adds both nutrition and tradition to your table.