Gen Z Is Currently Obsessed With Beans—Here Are Our Favorite Ways To Use Them
Don't underestimate the humble bean.
It’s safe to say that beans are having a moment, and it’s so easy to see why. Groceries can feel more expensive than ever, and beans are not only budget-friendly, but incredibly versatile. Did I mention they’re packed with fiber and protein?? The bean benefits go on and on, so if you’re ready to showcase this pantry staple, stop here. If you always grab a few cans from the store then stare at them in your pantry, not sure how to use them, we’re here to help. We’ve used this small-but-mighty ingredient in easy appetizers, cheap weeknight dinners, and even desserts!
Here, I’ve compiled our favorite weeknight dinners that showcase the star ingredient, from cozy soups and curries to satisfying skillets and stir-fry recipes. Whether you’re practicing meatless Mondays, looking to make weeknights more budget-friendly, or simply want to transform a pantry staple, these recipes are the best way to start (or fuel) your bean obsession.
Crispy Sheet-Pan Black Bean Tacos
Tacos always bring party vibes, but when they’re baked until crisp and rimmed with crunchy cheesy frico, it’s an all-out fiesta. Featuring refried black beans inside a crunchy corn tortilla, this cross between a taco and a sheet-pan quesadilla makes every weeknight feel like a celebration.
Cacio E Pepe White Beans Skillet
Craving 5-star flavors at home on a weeknight? Make these cacio e pepe white beans. Using just 6 ingredients, this classy one-pan dinner promises the luscious richness and bold flavors of a fine dining restaurant in just 15 minutes.
Sticky Sesame Chickpeas & Broccoli
Looking for a cheap, easy dinner that takes under 30 minutes to cook? Sticky sesame chickpeas and broccoli are calling your name. Starring an absurdly delicious glaze made from staple condiments and a few humble cans from the pantry, this simple one-pan dinner will make even a Wednesday night feel special.
Creamy Tuscan White Bean Skillet
Creamy Tuscan anything is a cult classic here at Delish, but this vegetarian version might be our new favorite. Featuring white beans and spinach swimming in a luxurious tomato cream sauce, this hearty skillet dinner is so comforting and satisfying, you’ll never miss the chicken.
Indian Butter Chickpeas
Looking for your new favorite way to dress up canned chickpeas? You’re in the right place. Simmered in an aromatic tomato gravy, this vegetarian spin on classic butter chicken will forever change the way you look at a can of beans.
Get the Indian Butter Chickpeas recipe.
Green Chili White Bean Enchiladas
Looking for a cozy casserole to spice up your weeknight vegetarian repertoire? Make these white bean enchiladas. Stuffed with creamy green chili white beans and topped with melty cheese, these simple but hearty enchiladas will become your new comfort food favorite.
Coconut Chickpea & Sweet Potato Curry
If you're craving a hearty and comforting dinner that's also vegan, look no further. This curry is bursting with flavors inspired by chana masala, so much so that no one will miss the meat. It's our tribute to the richness of Indian cuisine in every bite.
Pesto Rice & Bean Soup
While we use chicken broth here to add a layer of savoriness without actually adding meat, feel free to substitute it with vegetable broth or water. Depending on personal taste, you can also use whatever type of canned beans you’d like (or make your own from scratch!).
Get the Pesto Rice & Bean Soup recipe.
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
When i'm hungry for more than a light side, sometimes I like to bulk things up, just like in this Mediterranean-inspired chickpea salad.Thanks to the chickpeas, this salad will keep you full for hours, and is satisfying in a way that leafy greens never could be (sorry not sorry, kale).
Get the Mediterranean Chickpea Salad recipe.
Coconut Braised Cabbage
This recipe is a perfect example of how versatile cabbage can be. Big wedges of the veg are seared, then simmered along with chickpeas, in a savory and slightly spicy coconut milk broth. You’ll be amazed how this humble vegetable is transformed into something to brag about.
Get the Coconut Braised Cabbage recipe.
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