Limas au Gratin
Limas au Gratin Recipe from France
Introduction
Limas au Gratin is a delicious and creamy side dish that is perfect for any meal. This recipe combines the rich flavors of lima beans, milk, cheese, and butter to create a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.
History
The origins of Limas au Gratin are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in French cuisine. The dish has since become popular in many countries around the world, with each region adding its own unique twist to the recipe.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Thaw the beans and place them in a foil pie plate.
- Add the remaining ingredients.
- Cover the pie plate with heavy-duty foil, crimping the edges tightly.
- Grill the pie plate over hot coals for 15 minutes, turning it often.
Variations
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
- Mix in some diced tomatoes or bell peppers for added freshness.
- Top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crunchy topping.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to thaw the lima beans before cooking to ensure they cook evenly.
- Be sure to cover the pie plate tightly with foil to trap in the heat and steam, helping the beans cook through.
- Turning the pie plate often while grilling will help ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
Limas au Gratin pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a fresh salad.
Cooking Techniques
Grilling the Limas au Gratin gives them a delicious smoky flavor that complements the creamy texture of the dish.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use fresh lima beans instead of frozen, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the Limas au Gratin ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to grill. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before grilling.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Limas au Gratin in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation, or in a large serving dish for a family-style meal.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Limas au Gratin with a crisp white wine or a light beer to complement the creamy flavors of the dish.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover Limas au Gratin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Limas au Gratin contains approximately 150 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Limas au Gratin contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Limas au Gratin contains approximately 8 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Limas au Gratin contains approximately 6 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Limas au Gratin is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (milk and cheese) and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
Summary
Limas au Gratin is a nutritious and delicious side dish that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great addition to any meal.
Summary
Limas au Gratin is a delicious and nutritious side dish that is perfect for any meal. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it is sure to become a family favorite.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margot for our weekly coffee date. As we chatted and sipped on our cappuccinos, she suddenly pulled out a worn, stained recipe card from her recipe box.
"Have you ever tried Limas au Gratin?" Margot asked, her eyes twinkling with excitement.
I shook my head, not even sure what Limas au Gratin was. Margot explained that it was a delicious French-inspired dish made with tender lima beans baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It sounded absolutely heavenly, and I begged her to share the recipe with me.
Margot laughed and agreed, handing me the recipe card. She had received it from her own grandmother, who had learned it from a French friend many years ago. The recipe was written in elegant cursive handwriting and detailed each step with care.
I studied the recipe card intently, taking in the ingredients and instructions. It seemed simple enough, but the flavors sounded complex and rich. I couldn't wait to give it a try.
That evening, I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in my kitchen. The familiar scents of garlic, butter, and cheese filled the air as I sautéed the lima beans and prepared the creamy sauce. I followed the recipe to a tee, just as Margot had instructed.
Finally, after what seemed like hours of anticipation, the Limas au Gratin emerged from the oven, golden and bubbling. I couldn't wait to taste it.
As I took my first bite, I was transported to a cozy French bistro, where the flavors mingled and danced on my palate. The creamy sauce was velvety smooth, the lima beans tender and rich. It was a dish unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew it would become a staple in my repertoire.
I called Margot immediately to thank her for sharing the recipe with me. She laughed and said she was glad to pass it on to someone who appreciated it as much as she did.
From that day on, Limas au Gratin became a regular fixture at my dinner table. I would make it for special occasions, like birthdays and holidays, or simply as a comforting weeknight meal. Each time I cooked it, I thought of Margot and her grandmother, grateful for their generosity in sharing this delicious recipe with me.
Over the years, I made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding a touch of fresh herbs or a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for extra crunch. I even taught my own grandchildren how to make Limas au Gratin, passing down the tradition from one generation to the next.
Now, whenever I make Limas au Gratin, I think of all the wonderful memories and friendships that have been forged over this simple yet elegant dish. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting bonds and cherished moments.
And so, as I sit down to enjoy a steaming plate of Limas au Gratin, I am filled with gratitude for the recipe that started it all – and for the dear friend who shared it with me on that fateful summer day.
Categories
| Baby Lima Bean Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | French Recipes | Parmesan Cheese Recipes | Romano Recipes |