Savory lima beans are perfect for the crock pot because they require a long, slow cooking time in order to cook to a tender finish. You can go further than just preparing simple lima beans, however. Combine the lima beans with tomatoes, vegetables and vegetable or chicken stock to make a flavorful soup. The lima beans will soak up the robust flavor of the soup to yield a juicy, tender burst of flavor with every bite.
Soak the dried lima beans overnight in a large bowl. The soaking process will help the lima beans to cook to a tender finish.
Place the cooked bacon, lima beans, yellow onion, carrot, celery, red bell pepper, vegetable or chicken broth, fresh basil and fresh parsley in a crock pot. Cover the pot and turn it on to low heat.
Simmer the lima bean soup for six to eight hours, or until the beans are tender.
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the soup hot with Parmesan cheese on top as a garnish.