Shuck corn. Grill corn. Shell beans. Trim beans. Blanch beans. Let’s be honest. Sometimes you just don’t have time to do all of that. Especially if you’re having a BBQ. You need more time to relax with that ice cold beer or whatever your favorite cocktail might be. The solution? Frozen veggies. No apologies necessary. Frozen fruits and veggies are usually packed at peak ripeness which is when they contain the most nutrients. It’s sometimes more nutritional than buying fresh produce that’s been sitting on the shelves. So go ahead and make these spicy beans with lime spritz at your next cookout. Cookout. Barbecue. Grilling out. It’s all the same. Sit back. Relax. And enjoy a cold one.

The key to getting the most juice out of your limes is to let them sit out at room temperature.

No need to thaw the veggies. Take them right out of the freezer and add them to the pot. Use a wooden spoon and stir away.

The red pepper flakes add the right amount of spiciness. You can always cut back for a milder taste.

Spicy Beans with Lime Spritz
adapted from Molto Batali

serves 2 to 3

Ingredients
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 cup onion, diced (such as a vidalia onion)
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 cups frozen green beans
1 cup frozen lima beans
1 cup frozen corn
kosher salt
2 limes, halved

Directions
In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onions and saute for 4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic, red pepper flakes, green beans, lima beans, corn, and pinch of salt, and stir with a wooden spoon. Saute for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the pan from heat. Squeeze the limes over the beans and season with salt to taste. Serve hot or at room temperature.