16 Tasty Recipes Using Canned Beans and Lentils

Canned beans and lentils are real lifesavers in the kitchen. They’re affordable, packed with nutrients, and super versatile. Whether you’re whipping up a quick meal after a long day or trying to add more plant-based dishes to your diet, these pantry staples can be transformed into delicious, hearty meals with minimal effort. Here are some creative and tasty ways to make the most of canned beans and lentils that will have you excited to cook and enjoy every bite.

Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is a comforting and nutritious dish, perfect for a cold day. Begin by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil until soft. Add minced garlic, dried thyme, and canned lentils, then pour in vegetable broth. Simmer until the flavors meld together, about 30 minutes. The soup has a hearty and earthy taste, with the lentils providing a rich, slightly nutty flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with crusty bread.

Black Bean Tacos

Black bean tacos are a quick and flavorful meal. Heat canned black beans with cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Serve the beans in warm corn tortillas, topped with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime juice. The beans have a creamy texture and a slightly smoky taste that pairs well with the fresh toppings. Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese for extra richness.

Chickpea Salad

For a refreshing chickpea salad, combine canned chickpeas with chopped cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and parsley. Dress the salad with a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The chickpeas have a firm texture and a nutty flavor that complements the crisp vegetables and tangy dressing. This salad is perfect as a light lunch or a side dish.

Lentil Burgers

Lentil burgers are a satisfying vegetarian alternative to traditional burgers. Mash canned lentils with breadcrumbs, a beaten egg, finely chopped onions, garlic, and your favorite spices. Form the mixture into patties and cook in a skillet until golden brown. These burgers have a savory taste with a slightly crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. Serve on a bun with your favorite toppings and condiments.

White Bean Dip

White bean dip is a creamy and versatile appetizer. Blend canned white beans with garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and olive oil until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. The dip has a smooth, velvety texture and a mild, slightly nutty flavor. Serve with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Red Lentil Curry

Red lentil curry is a fragrant and hearty dish. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in coconut oil, then add curry powder, turmeric, and canned red lentils. Pour in coconut milk and simmer until the lentils are tender and the curry is thickened. The dish has a rich, creamy texture with a warm, spicy flavor. Serve over rice or with naan bread for a complete meal.

Black Bean Soup

Black bean soup is a robust and flavorful option. Start by sautéing onions, bell peppers, and garlic in olive oil. Add canned black beans, vegetable broth, cumin, and oregano. Simmer until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined. The soup has a thick, hearty consistency with a slightly smoky and spicy taste. Garnish with cilantro, diced avocado, and a squeeze of lime.

Lentil Salad

A lentil salad is a light and nutritious dish. Mix canned lentils with diced red bell peppers, cucumbers, red onions, and crumbled feta cheese. Dress with olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. The lentils have a firm texture and a nutty flavor that balances the crisp vegetables and tangy dressing. This salad is perfect for a healthy lunch or a picnic.

Bean Chili

Bean chili is a warming and filling meal. Brown onions and garlic in a pot, then add canned kidney beans, black beans, tomatoes, and chili powder. Simmer until thickened and the flavors are well blended. The chili has a rich, hearty texture with a smoky, slightly spicy taste. Serve with cornbread or over rice, and top with cheese, sour cream, and green onions.

Lentil Bolognese

Lentil Bolognese is a rich and satisfying pasta sauce. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil, then add canned lentils, tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Simmer until thick and flavorful. The lentils provide a meaty texture and a deep, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with pasta. Serve over spaghetti or your favorite pasta with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Chickpea Curry

Chickpea curry is a flavorful and aromatic dish. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in coconut oil, then add curry powder, canned chickpeas, and coconut milk. Simmer until thickened and the chickpeas are tender. The curry has a creamy texture and a warm, spicy flavor. Serve over rice or with naan bread.

Bean Salad

Bean salad is a versatile and refreshing option. Combine canned kidney beans, black beans, and chickpeas with diced bell peppers, red onions, and corn. Dress with olive oil, lime juice, cumin, and salt. The beans have a firm texture and a mild, nutty flavor that complements the fresh vegetables and tangy dressing. This salad is perfect for a picnic or a barbecue.

Lentil Stew

Lentil stew is a hearty and comforting dish. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil, then add canned lentils, vegetable broth, and your favorite herbs. Simmer until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined. The stew has a thick, rich texture and a deep, earthy flavor. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Hummus

Hummus is a creamy and delicious dip. Blend canned chickpeas with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil until smooth. Season with salt and a pinch of paprika. The dip has a smooth, velvety texture and a rich, nutty flavor. Serve with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

Bean Enchiladas

Bean enchiladas are a flavorful and satisfying meal. Fill tortillas with a mixture of canned black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese. Roll up and place in a baking dish, then cover with enchilada sauce and more cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden brown. The enchiladas have a soft, melty texture with a smoky, slightly spicy taste. Serve with sour cream and chopped cilantro.

Lentil Shepherd’s Pie

Lentil Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty and comforting dish. Sauté onions, carrots, and peas in olive oil, then add canned lentils and vegetable broth. Spoon the mixture into a baking dish and top with mashed potatoes. Bake until the potatoes are golden and the filling is bubbling. The dish has a rich, savory flavor with a creamy, smooth topping. Serve with a side of green vegetables.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout

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