Delicious & Healthy Corn Succotash: A Gluten-Free & Weight Watchers Friendly Side Dish

Discover the delightful flavors of this incredible Corn Succotash recipe! It’s not only incredibly tasty but also completely gluten-free and perfectly suited for a Weight Watchers lifestyle. Succotash, a vibrant medley of vegetables, is a fantastic side dish that graces tables year-round, but it truly shines during the autumn holidays, especially at Thanksgiving. Imagine serving this colorful and wholesome dish alongside your festive meal – it’s guaranteed to be a hit!

This versatile side dish pairs exceptionally well with a variety of main courses, such as a Gluten-free Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Quinoa Cranberry Dressing. It’s also an excellent way to utilize the fresh bounty of sweet corn and aromatic herbs from your garden or local market, bringing garden-fresh flavors right to your plate.

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“Are you going to eat those?” I’d frequently ask, eyeing my brother’s lima beans with anticipation. It was always clear he wouldn’t, and I, being the ever-eager younger sister, was more than happy to claim them for myself. While most kids might dream of a sister who leaves them alone, I often felt like the lucky one in this scenario. I am, perhaps, one of the few people in the world who genuinely LOVES lima beans and could never comprehend why my brother, or indeed anyone, would choose to avoid them. Yet, it was only recently that I stumbled upon the marvel that is Succotash – an entire dish built around these often-misunderstood beans; a true lima bean extravaganza!

It’s hardly surprising that my brother held a strong aversion to lima beans. In fact, polls and surveys, such as those by Huff Post, consistently rank lima beans above other common legumes like green beans and peas on lists of Foods People Hate. I still genuinely don’t understand the widespread dislike. Beyond their vibrant color and delightful taste, lima beans are packed with nutritional benefits, offering a good source of protein, fiber, and essential minerals. They contribute to a healthy diet and can be a fantastic addition to many meals. You can delve deeper into their impressive health advantages by searching for more information online.

🥘 Ingredients for the Perfect Succotash

Despite my long-standing affection for lima beans, I must confess that the dish known as Succotash remained a mystery to me until a couple of years ago. My introduction came when my husband gifted me Anthony Bourdain’s “Appetites” cookbook for my birthday. Before that, my only exposure to “succotash” was through Sylvester the cat’s iconic, lispy exclamation, “Sufferin’ Succotash!” – an expression of annoyance and surprise from my childhood cartoons. Never did I imagine it referred to such a delicious and hearty vegetable medley.

Interestingly, even the esteemed Anthony Bourdain, with his often-candid culinary opinions, had a very specific take on frozen lima beans. According to him, their primary purpose was rather singular:

He famously went so far as to declare that Succotash is, “A completely acceptable vehicle for frozen lima beans, and perhaps the only reason they ought to exist and endure.” A bold statement, certainly, but one that underscores the dish’s undeniable ability to transform humble ingredients into something truly special.

In addition to the star ingredient, lima beans, this simple and incredibly flavorful side dish is crafted with a blend of fresh and pantry staples that contribute to its rich taste and appealing texture. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the traditional succotash experience:

• Corn: You can use canned corn for convenience, or opt for fresh corn cut straight from the cob for a sweeter crunch, or even frozen corn kernels.
• Onion: Finely diced onion forms the aromatic base, adding depth of flavor.
• Butter: A touch of butter provides richness and helps to sauté the vegetables beautifully.
• Red Bell Pepper: This adds a lovely pop of color and a subtle sweetness to the mix.
• Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with its distinctive, pungent aroma and taste.
• Fresh Herbs: A generous amount of fresh herbs, such as oregano, thyme, and parsley, elevate the flavor profile, bringing a vibrant, earthy freshness.
• Vegetable Soup Stock: This liquid ingredient binds everything together, creating a tender and cohesive dish while enhancing the overall savory notes.

For precise quantities and detailed instructions, please refer to the complete recipe card provided below. The harmony of these ingredients creates a succotash so delicious, I’ve even adapted some of these flavors for other recipes, like my popular Corn Stuffed Grilled Peppers!

📖 Variations & Substitutions

This succotash recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Feel free to experiment with these delicious variations and substitutions:

• Corn: If canned corn isn’t your preference, you can easily substitute it with fresh corn kernels, particularly delicious when sweet corn is in season, or use frozen corn kernels for year-round convenience.
• Tomatoes: Instead of the specified tomatoes, you can use vibrant cherry tomatoes, halved, or fresh garden tomatoes, diced, for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Onion: The recipe calls for white onion, but you can effortlessly swap it out for red onion for a slightly sharper taste, yellow onion, or even milder green onion (scallions) for a more delicate touch.
• Herbs: While oregano, thyme, and parsley are featured, fresh basil would also make a delightful addition, lending a sweet, peppery note. If fresh herbs are unavailable, you can use dried herbs, but remember to use half the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
• Additions: Consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese at the end for an extra layer of richness, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

💭 What is Succotash? History and Tradition

Succotash is a traditional American dish with deep roots, primarily associated with Native American cuisine before the arrival of European colonists. The name itself is derived from the Narragansett Native American word “msíckquatash,” meaning “boiled corn kernels.” Historically, it was a staple dish made from corn, lima beans, and other available vegetables, often served at communal feasts.

While succotash is a common sight at Thanksgiving tables and other holiday gatherings in some parts of the United States, its popularity varies regionally. For instance, in Canada, it’s generally not as well-known or traditionally served during Thanksgiving meals. This regional difference often highlights whether lima beans are a common part of the local palate, as those who aren’t fans of lima beans might not be familiar with a dish built around them.

Beyond corn and lima beans, traditional succotash often incorporates other seasonal vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, and sometimes even potatoes or squash, reflecting the bounty of the harvest. It’s a testament to simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create a comforting and flavorful dish. Its humble origins and hearty nature make it a perfect representation of comfort food.

👨🏻‍🍳 A Culinary Inspiration: Remembering Anthony Bourdain

Anthony Bourdain was more than just a chef or a TV personality; he was a storyteller, an adventurer, and a voice of raw honesty in the culinary world. His unexpected passing a few years ago left a profound void, and his eloquence and genuine approach to food and culture are truly missed. I have never before shed tears over a celebrity, but Anthony Bourdain was different. When you read every book written by someone and follow their journeys on screen, you develop a unique connection, a sense of knowing them. He wasn’t playing a character; he was always authentically himself.

I was, and will forever be, an immense admirer of Anthony Bourdain. His books are among the very few foodie narratives I’ve ever truly devoured and enjoyed. He made no apologies for his opinions, and that’s precisely what I respected about him. It’s ironic, perhaps, that he likely wouldn’t have been too fond of me, given his well-known disdain for food bloggers. Nevertheless, his influence on my perspective on food and writing was immense.

Bourdain was an undeniably important figure, shaping the careers and philosophies of countless cooks and food writers. He was a huge influence on me personally, and in my estimation, he remains the best food writer of our time. He had a way of cutting through pretension and getting to the heart of what makes food and travel meaningful.

Coincidentally, our daughters are around the same age. He became a father at 51, and in the introduction to his cookbook, he shared a beautiful reflection: “….Fatherhood has been an enormous relief (in reference to his self-proclaimed narcissism) as I am now genetically, instinctually compelled to care more about someone other than myself. I like being a father. No, I love being a father. Everything about it.” My heart aches for his little girl, and the world lost a truly remarkable individual. Rest in peace, Anthony Bourdain.

One way I choose to honor those who have passed is by exploring and cooking from their recipes. Although I primarily focus on developing my own new recipes these days, I felt compelled to pay homage to Anthony Bourdain by sharing a recipe from his cookbook on this blog. That recipe, surprisingly, is Succotash. It might seem an unusual choice, as he wasn’t particularly renowned for his succotash. However, I believe he would approve of the choice, given his appreciation for the unconventional and the often-overlooked dishes of the world.

🍲 Main Dishes to Serve with Succotash

Succotash, with its rich flavors and appealing texture, makes a fantastic accompaniment to a wide range of main courses. Its versatility allows it to complement both casual weeknight meals and special holiday feasts. Here are some excellent main dish pairings:

• Picnic Ham with Orange Glaze Recipe: The sweetness of the ham would beautifully contrast the savory succotash.
• Easy Cornish Hens with Rosemary Wine Sauce (as shown in the image below): A classic pairing that feels elegant and comforting.
• Beer Can BBQ Chicken: The smoky flavors of BBQ chicken would be a perfect match for the fresh succotash.
• Monterey Chicken: A flavorful chicken dish that would be well-balanced by this vibrant side.
• Smoky Mesquite BBQ Slow Cooker Beer Ribs: The robust flavors of ribs would find a delightful counterpart in the succotash.

👪 Serving Size

This delightful sweet corn succotash recipe is designed to serve a generous group of 10 people. If you’re hosting a smaller gathering, you can easily cut the recipe in half. Conversely, for larger events or bigger families, you have the flexibility to double or even triple the recipe. To adjust the ingredient amounts, simply click on the serving size (which is highlighted in blue on the recipe card below) and select your desired number of servings; the quantities will automatically adjust for your convenience.

🔢 WW Points

For those following the Weight Watchers program, you’ll be pleased to know that this easy succotash recipe is incredibly friendly, coming in at just 1 WW point per serving. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a hearty and healthy side dish without compromising your wellness goals.

🍽 Equipment Needed

One of the best aspects of this delicious side dish is its simplicity in terms of equipment. You truly only need one main piece of cookware to bring this recipe to life:

A medium-sized pot or a deep, large nonstick skillet will work perfectly. This minimal equipment requirement makes it an ideal recipe for both experienced cooks and beginners alike.

🌡️ Storage Instructions

To keep your corn succotash fresh and delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s important to note that the ingredients in this particular succotash recipe do not hold up well to freezing, as the texture of the corn and lima beans can become mushy upon thawing. For the best quality, enjoy it fresh within a few days.

And if you’re searching for more delicious, healthy, vegetarian, gluten-free, and Weight Watchers friendly side dishes, be sure to give this fantastic recipe a try:

Zucchini & Feta Sauté

Whether you’re using fresh produce picked from your garden, ingredients from a bustling farmer’s market, everyday items from the grocery store, or even convenient canned and frozen options, this succotash recipe is incredibly versatile. Its vibrant colors and robust, fresh flavors make it the perfect accompaniment to almost any meal, adding a touch of rustic charm and wholesome goodness to your table.

⭐ Reviews

Did you make this delightful succotash recipe and absolutely LOVE it?! Please take a moment to leave a 5-star rating and share your thoughts in the comment section below! Your feedback is incredibly valuable and helps other home cooks discover wonderful new dishes.