I have so many cans of beans, how can I use them?
“Beans, beans the magical fruit…” On the daily I am recommending people eat more beans. Some people claim to have hated beans since childhood, some people are haunted by baked bean Saturday nights. While they often get a dull reputation, beans are a powerhouse when it comes to nutrition. Beans can be considered a vegetable and protein food. Providing carbohydrates (our main source of energy), fiber (keeping our insides moving) and protein, along with B-vitamins and iron. Canned beans are easy to use and are super dynamic. Here are three ways to use three different kinds of canned beans. I would recommend giving canned beans a rinse before using just to get a layer of salt off.
Kidney beans:
Pasta salad-add a can of kidney beans to any pasta salad recipe. Try a box of pasta, canned or frozen corn, 1 can beans, a sprinkle of any cheese on hand (feta, shredded mozzarella cheddar, etc.), dried red pepper (or any preferred spice) and a coating Italian (or other) dressing!
Beans and rice-having rice? Add beans! The perfect combo of protein and complex carbs--there is a reason this is a staple in many cultures.
Mac n cheese-what better way to add some protein and fiber to a box of mac n cheese? Hoping one day my daughter will thank me for this…for now she knows no different.
Chickpeas (garbanzo beans):
Hummus-mix 1 can chickpeas with 2 tablespoons olive oil and 4 tablespoons water, salt/pepper/garlic/cumin to taste in blender or food processor.
Marinated and sauté in a frying pan-great salad, rice or pasta topper! Try any dressing or sauce (BBQ, buffalo, Italian dressing, soy sauce).
Roasted- toss in olive oil, garlic powder and pepper. Cook at 400 degrees for 20-30 minutes.
Black beans:
Tacos- #meatlessMondaymeal…Sub black beans for ground beef in any taco recipe.
Brownies- try this easy recipe…https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/black-bean-brownies/
Egg scramble-My favorite would be scrambled eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, salsa, black beans, and topped with avocado. You could even throw it in a tortilla or on a piece of toast!
*All beans above would be rinsed and drained.