How Many Calories in Lima Beans? Nutrition Facts & Macros
100 grams of cooked lima beans has 115 calories
Protein 7.8g · Carbs 20.9g · Fat 0.4g
Lima beans have 115 calories per 100g — creamy, starchy legumes also known as butter beans. Excellent plant protein (7.8g) with outstanding fiber (7.0g) and very low fat (0.38g). Standout potassium content (508mg = 11% DV) — among the highest of any legume. Good folate (83µg), iron (2.39mg), and selenium (4.5µg). Named after Lima, Peru. Available fresh, frozen, dried, or canned.
481 kJ · per 100g · Water: 69.79 g
Calorie Calculator: Lima Beans
100 g Lima Beans contains 115 kcal
Calories by Portion Size
| Portion | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 cup cooked (170g) | 196 kcal | 13.3g | 35.5g | 0.6g |
| ½ cup cooked (85g) | 98 kcal | 6.6g | 17.7g | 0.3g |
| 100 grams | 115 kcal | 7.8g | 20.9g | 0.4g |
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Lima Beans — Nutrition Facts
| Lima Beans | per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 115 kcal |
| Protein | 7.8 g |
| Fat | 0.38 g |
| Carbs | 20.88 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Sugar | 2.9 g |
| Sodium | 2 mg |
| Potassium | 508 mg |
| Magnesium | 43 mg |
| Phosphorus | 111 mg |
| Vitamin C | 0 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.161 mg |
| Folate | 83 mcg |
| Water | 69.79 g |
Source: USDA FoodData Central (FDC ID: 174253) · Data verified April 2026
Variations
Succotash (with corn)
Classic American side dish — lima beans and corn kernels simmered together with butter, salt, and pepper. Originally a Native American dish (Narragansett: msíckquatash). Often includes onion, bell pepper, or bacon. About 150-180 kcal per serving. A Southern US Thanksgiving staple.
In stew or casserole
Lima beans excel in slow-cooked stews — they become incredibly creamy and absorb all the flavors. Greek gigantes (giant baked beans in tomato sauce), Southern ham and butter bean stew, or lamb and lima bean casserole. Their starchiness naturally thickens the broth. About 200-280 kcal per serving depending on other ingredients.
As purée or dip
Lima beans make a silky smooth purée — a healthier alternative to mashed potatoes. Blend cooked limas with garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a white bean dip. Also works as a side purée with roasted meats. The natural creaminess means less fat needed. About 130-160 kcal per serving with olive oil.
Dietary Perspectives
For Weight Loss
Lima beans are excellent for weight loss — 115 calories per 100g with 7.8g protein and outstanding 7.0g fiber (25% DV). The high fiber-protein combo is one of the most satiating among legumes. Nearly fat-free (0.38g). The potassium (508mg) helps reduce water retention. Use as a potato or rice substitute for fewer calories with more fiber and protein.
For Athletic Performance
Strong plant protein source — 7.8g per 100g with exceptional potassium (508mg = 11% DV) for muscle function and electrolyte balance. Good iron (2.39mg) for oxygen transport. The carb-to-protein ratio (2.7:1) is near ideal for recovery meals. Combine with grains for complete amino acids. Good pre-workout meal 2-3 hours before training.
For Keto
Lima beans have 13.9g net carbs per 100g (20.9g minus 7.0g fiber) — too high for strict keto as a main dish. A small 50g portion (~7g net carbs) could work as a side. The high fiber partially offsets the carb count. For keto, better legume options include edamame (3.5g net carbs) or black soybeans (2g net). Use lima beans sparingly as a garnish, not a base.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in lima beans?
100g of cooked lima beans has 115 calories — 20.9g carbs (7.0g fiber = 13.9g net), 0.38g fat, 7.8g protein. One cup cooked (~170g) = 196 calories. Dried lima beans are ~338 kcal per 100g before cooking (they nearly triple in weight).
Are lima beans healthy?
Very — high protein (7.8g), outstanding fiber (7.0g = 25% DV), excellent potassium (508mg = 11% DV), good iron (2.39mg), selenium (4.5µg), and folate (83µg). Nearly fat-free (0.38g). The high fiber and potassium combo supports heart health and blood pressure regulation.
What do lima beans taste like?
Creamy, buttery, and mildly starchy — hence the nickname 'butter beans'. Young/baby lima beans are more delicate and sweet. Large mature limas are denser and earthier. They absorb flavors well, making them versatile in soups, stews, and casseroles. Some people find them bland alone — they shine with seasoning.
Are lima beans and butter beans the same?
Yes — same species (Phaseolus lunatus). 'Lima beans' is the American term, 'butter beans' is used in the UK, Southern US, and parts of Europe. Baby limas are smaller and more tender; large limas (Fordhook type) are starchier and meatier. All are the same plant.
Can you eat lima beans raw?
No — raw lima beans contain linamarin, which releases cyanide when digested. Cooking (boiling for at least 10-15 minutes) destroys the compound completely. Canned and frozen lima beans are fully cooked and safe. This is true for many legumes — always cook dried beans thoroughly.
How do you cook dried lima beans?
Soak overnight (8-12 hours) — lima beans expand significantly. Drain, add fresh water (3:1 ratio), bring to boil, then simmer 45-60 minutes until tender but not mushy. Do not add salt or acid until the last 10 minutes (slows softening). Baby limas cook faster (25-35 minutes).
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