Think of this classic succotash as a greatest hits list of summer veggies.

These combined complimentary flavors are only heightened with the additions of crumbled smoky bacon and fresh basil.

It travels well, reheats well, and can easily be doubled for a crowd.

Southern Living Best Ever Succotash in the pan ready to serve

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn; Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

Learn how to make succotash.

To transform it into an entree, just top it with grilledshrimp,chicken,pork chops, orsalmon.

This one is done in about 30 minutes.

Southern Living Best Ever Succotash cooking the lima beans

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn; Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

Here’s how to make it:

Why Is It Called Succotash?

Succotash dates back to 17th century Native Americans.

Can Succotash Be Made Ahead of Time?

Southern Living Best Ever Succotash cooking the bacon in the skillet

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn; Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

Southern LivingCommunity Tips and Praise

“Made this pretty much as directed and it was delicious!

Warms up well,” wrote reviewer Pamala Coker.

“Best-Ever is accurate, and I don’t use that expression often!

Southern Living Best Ever Succotash cooking the okra and onions

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn; Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

Delightful, and just as good as leftovers for breakfast with eggs and sourdough toast.”

Bring to a boil over medium-high.

Reduce to medium-low, and simmer until beans are just tender, 8 to 10 minutes.

Southern Living Best Ever Succotash after adding the corn, lima beans, and butter

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn; Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

Drain and set aside.

Cook bacon:

While beans simmer, place bacon slices in a large cast-iron skillet over medium.

Cook until crisp, about 8 minutes, turning once after 5 minutes.

Southern Living Best Ever Succotash adding the tomatoes

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn; Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

Transfer bacon to paper towels; crumble and set aside.

Reserve drippings in skillet.

Add butter, and cook, stirring constantly, until butter is melted, about 1 minute.

Just leave out the bacon crumbles and replace the drippings with two tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil.