15+ Recipes with Beans: Delicious and Nutritious Meals to Enjoy

Beans are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can enhance a wide variety of dishes. Incorporating beans into your meals can add protein, fiber, and a satisfying texture while also being budget-friendly. Whether you’re looking for hearty mains, tasty sides, or even snacks, beans offer endless possibilities.

From classic bean salads to innovative bean-based desserts, these recipes can cater to many tastes and dietary preferences. Exploring different ways to cook with beans can inspire your meals and make healthy eating enjoyable.

With simple ingredients and straightforward preparations, you’ll find that beans are a great addition to your kitchen routine.

1) Black Bean Burgers

Black bean burgers are a tasty and healthy alternative to traditional meat burgers. They are packed with protein and flavor. Making them at home is easy and fun!

You will need cooked black beans, onion, garlic, and some spices. Feel free to add ingredients like chipotle peppers for a spicy kick.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
• ⅓ cup grated yellow onion
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chipotle peppers, breadcrumbs

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mash the black beans with a fork.
3. Stir in the onion, garlic, cumin, and optional ingredients.
4. Form patties from the mixture.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Enjoy your delicious black bean burgers!

2) Chickpea & Orzo Salad

Chickpea and orzo salad is a fresh and colorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. The combination of tender orzo pasta and protein-rich chickpeas makes it both satisfying and nutritious.

Start by mixing cooked orzo with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Toss in some chickpeas for added texture and flavor. Fresh parsley and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast will enhance the taste and add some nutrients.

Drizzle with lemon juice and a splash of olive oil before serving. This salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it a great option for meal prep or picnics.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions, then drain and cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the orzo, chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
3. Add parsley and nutritional yeast to the bowl.
4. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil.
5. Toss to combine and season to taste before serving.

3) Spicy Black Bean Soup

This Spicy Black Bean Soup is a warm and comforting dish. You can make it quickly using canned black beans, which saves time. The mix of spices gives it a kick that enhances the flavors.

Start by sautéing some onion and garlic in a pot. Then, add canned black beans, diced tomatoes, and spices like cumin and chili powder. Simmer everything together for about 20 minutes.

You can enjoy it topped with avocado or cilantro. It’s a great meal for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 cans black beans (15 ounces each)
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: avocado or cilantro for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until soft.
3. Stir in black beans and diced tomatoes.
4. Add cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with avocado or cilantro if desired.

4) Easy Pinto Beans Recipe

Making easy pinto beans is simple and rewarding. These beans are creamy and full of flavor, making them perfect as a side dish or in a main meal.

To start, you will need just a few ingredients. Gather dried pinto beans, onions, garlic, and spices like cumin and chili powder. These will create a tasty base for your dish.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried pinto beans
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups water

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the pinto beans and remove any debris.
2. In a pot, sauté the onions and garlic until soft.
3. Add the beans, water, and spices to the pot.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
5. Cook for 1.5 to 3 hours, until beans are tender.
6. Adjust seasoning and serve warm.

5) White Bean Dip With Cumin-Chile Oil

This White Bean Dip is creamy and packed with flavor. The addition of cumin and chili oil gives it a nice kick. You can enjoy it with pita chips or fresh vegetables.

To make this dip, you’ll need basic ingredients that are easy to find. It takes just a few minutes to prepare, making it ideal for snacks or gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1-2 tablespoons chili oil (to taste)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. In a food processor, combine the cannellini beans, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Drizzle in the chili oil and mix.
4. Adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve with pita chips or vegetables.

6) Homemade Hummus

Making homemade hummus is simple and fun. You can customize the flavors to your liking. This delicious spread is great for snacks or appetizers.

To start, gather your ingredients. You’ll need canned white beans, garlic, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.

Ingredients

• 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cloves garlic
• 3 tablespoons tahini
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a blender or food processor, add the white beans and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. While blending, add tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice.
4. Blend until creamy.
5. Taste and add salt as needed.
6. Serve with pita bread or veggies. Enjoy!

7) Vegetarian Tacos

Vegetarian tacos are a simple and tasty meal. You can make them quickly, and they’re packed with flavor. Using black beans, you get a good source of protein.

Start by heating canned black beans with spices like cumin and chili powder. You can also add sautéed onions and bell peppers for extra flavor.

To assemble, take a soft or crispy tortilla. Spoon in the bean mixture and top with fresh ingredients like salsa, avocado, or cilantro.

These tacos are perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or for entertaining friends.

Ingredients

• 1 can black beans
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• Tortillas
• Salsa
• Avocado, sliced
• Fresh cilantro

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat black beans in a pan with cumin and chili powder.
2. Sauté diced onion and bell pepper until soft.
3. Mix the sautéed veggies with the beans.
4. Warm tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
5. Fill tortillas with the bean mixture and toppings of your choice.

8) Rice and Peas

Rice and peas is a classic Jamaican dish that’s loved for its flavor and ease of preparation. You can enjoy it as a side or a main dish, making it perfect for any meal.

This dish is traditionally made with rice and red kidney beans, cooked together in coconut milk. It gets a nice kick from spices and fresh ingredients, adding warmth and depth to the flavor.

You can use canned beans for a quicker option. This saves time and still gives you a tasty meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried kidney beans (or 1 can of kidney beans)
• 1 cup rice (Jasmine or long-grain)
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 scallions, finely chopped
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups water

Cooking Instructions

1. If using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook until tender.
2. In a pot, add coconut milk, water, onions, and scallions.
3. Stir in the rice, beans, and salt.
4. Add the Scotch bonnet pepper for extra flavor.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
6. Fluff with a fork before serving and enjoy your delicious rice and peas!

9) Garlic Parmesan White Beans

Garlic Parmesan white beans are a quick and tasty dish. You can make them in just 15 minutes. This recipe uses canned cannellini beans, which saves time.

You’ll sauté garlic in olive oil to bring out its flavor. Then, add the beans and mix in Parmesan cheese for a creamy texture. A sprinkle of cherry tomatoes adds color and freshness.

This dish works great as a side or a light meal. Serve it warm and enjoy the rich flavor. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners or a special occasion.

10) Taco Salad with Rice and Beans

Taco salad with rice and beans is a delicious and filling option for any meal. You can prepare it quickly, making it perfect for busy days.

Layer fresh lettuce, seasoned meat, and your favorite beans for great flavor and texture. You can also add cooked rice for extra heartiness.

Consider topping it with salsa, cheese, and avocado for more taste. This salad is not only easy to make but also customizable to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn
• 1 cup chopped lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
• 1/2 cup salsa
• Optional: avocado, jalapeños, and sour cream

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large bowl, layer the lettuce as the base.
2. Add cooked rice and black beans on top.
3. Sprinkle corn and diced tomatoes evenly.
4. Top with cheese and salsa.
5. Add any optional toppings you like. Serve immediately and enjoy!

11) Cannellini Beans with Garlic

This dish is simple and full of flavor. Cannellini beans are creamy and pair perfectly with garlic. You can enjoy this recipe as a side or add it to salads.

To make this dish, start by heating olive oil in a skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about a minute. Then, add drained cannellini beans and stir to combine.

Cook for a few minutes to warm the beans through. You can season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra flavor.

This recipe is quick and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 2 cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme), optional

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Stir in cannellini beans and cook for 3-5 minutes.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Serve warm.

12) Taco Salad with Rice

Taco salad with rice is a fun and tasty dish. It combines fresh vegetables, seasoned beans, and rice in a crispy bowl. You can make it your own by adding your favorite toppings.

Start by cooking rice according to package instructions. Season it with a bit of salt for flavor.

While the rice cooks, prepare your beans, either canned or cooked from scratch. In a large bowl, mix together lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and cooked beans.

Once the rice is ready, add it to the mix. Serve in taco bowls or on plates. Top with salsa, sour cream, or avocado for extra taste. Enjoy your colorful and filling taco salad!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rice
• 1 can black beans (15 oz)
• 2 cups lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup cheese, shredded
• Salsa, sour cream, or avocado (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. Rinse and drain black beans.
3. In a bowl, combine lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese.
4. Once rice is done, mix it with the bean mixture.
5. Serve with toppings of choice.

13) Dirty Rice and Beans

Dirty rice and beans is a tasty dish that is easy to make. It combines rice, beans, veggies, and spices for a flavorful meal. This recipe is perfect for a hearty dinner or as a side dish.

Start by cooking the rice until it’s tender. While the rice cooks, heat some oil in a pan.

Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the veggies are soft. Next, add cooked beans and seasonings like paprika, cumin, and pepper.

Stir in the rice once everything is mixed. Cook for a few more minutes to let the flavors blend. Serve hot and enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 cup rice
• 1 can black beans (15 oz)
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, heat oil over medium heat.
3. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft.
4. Add black beans and spices, mixing well.
5. Stir in the cooked rice and heat through.
6. Serve hot.

14) Pesto Rice & Bean Soup

This Pesto Rice & Bean Soup is a warm and comforting dish. It’s perfect for a quick meal on a busy day.

First, cook some rice according to package instructions.

In a large pot, combine cooked rice, canned beans, vegetable broth, and your favorite pesto. Simmer the mixture on medium heat for about 10 minutes.

Stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if you like. Enjoy your homemade soup!

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can of beans (black or kidney)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup pesto
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. In a pot, combine cooked rice, beans, vegetable broth, and pesto.
3. Heat on medium for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

15) Bean Dip Spread

Bean dip spread is a tasty and simple snack you can make. It’s perfect for parties or just to enjoy at home.

Beans, spices, and a few other ingredients come together for a creamy treat. You can use any type of beans, like refried or black beans.

Add some garlic, lime juice, and spices for extra flavor. This dip goes great with tortilla chips, veggies, or even as a spread on sandwiches. It’s a crowd-pleaser and easy to whip up for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) refried beans or black beans
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the beans, garlic powder, lime juice, and chili powder.
2. Mix until smooth.
3. Then, stir in the sour cream.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve with chips or veggies.