When is Lima Bean Respect Day?

It is observed on April 20 each year.

How do people celebrate Lima Bean Respect Day?

Cook lima beans a new way, like in a succotash instead of plain and boiled, and compare fresh or frozen to canned.

Annual observance

Lima Bean Respect Day

April 20 Food / Dessert Updated 2026-07-08

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Overview

Lima Bean Respect Day, observed annually on April 20th, is an unofficial observance dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the often-maligned lima bean. It encourages individuals to give this versatile legume a second chance, highlighting its nutritional benefits and culinary potential in various dishes, from succotash to soups and stews.

Why it matters: Lima Bean Respect Day on April 20th serves to elevate the often-overlooked lima bean, celebrating its nutritional value and versatility in cooking. This day invites food enthusiasts to rediscover this legume's rich history and potential in a variety of delicious dishes.

Origin and story

Lima beans are named after Lima, the capital of Peru, where they were first cultivated around 8,000 years ago.

They are a good source of dietary fiber, protein, and several essential minerals, including iron, magnesium, and potassium.

Quick facts

DateApril 20
TypeFood / Dessert
Great forFoodies, Chocolate lovers, Home bakers

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

Lima beans have been feeding people since roughly 2000 BC, first domesticated by Andean cultures, and the small-seeded version was independently domesticated again in Mesoamerica centuries later — this is one of the oldest cultivated vegetables that still can't shake its reputation problem.

Give them a real chance

Celebrate by:

Cooking lima beans a way you haven't tried, like in a succotash or a garlicky sauté instead of plain and boiled.
Comparing fresh or frozen lima beans to canned, which often get blamed for the vegetable's bad reputation.

See what they actually offer

Helpful resources:

Lima Beans: Health Benefits, Nutrients per Serving, Preparation Information, and More (WebMD)

Did you know?

Lima beans were independently domesticated twice: once in the Andes around 2000 BC, producing the large-seeded type, and again in Mesoamerica around AD 800, producing the smaller Sieva type still grown today.

Fun facts

Lima beans are named after Lima, the capital of Peru, where they were first cultivated around 8,000 years ago.
They are a good source of dietary fiber, protein, and several essential minerals, including iron, magnesium, and potassium.
Despite being commonly called 'lima beans,' larger, creamier varieties are often known as 'butterbeans' in the Southern United States.

Sources and attribution

Lima Beans: Health Benefits, Nutrients per Serving, Preparation Information, and More (WebMD)

External links may lead to third-party websites.

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FAQ

When is Lima Bean Respect Day?: It is observed on April 20 each year.
What is Lima Bean Respect Day?: Lima Bean Respect Day, observed annually on April 20th, is an unofficial observance dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the often-maligned lima bean. It encourages individuals to give this versatile legume a second chance, highlighting its nutritional benefits and culinary potential in various dishes, from succotash to soups and stews.
How do people celebrate Lima Bean Respect Day?: Cook lima beans a new way, like in a succotash instead of plain and boiled, and compare fresh or frozen to canned.

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