Not to mention, beans are incredibly nutritious.

They’re packed with plant-based protein, fiber and numerous vitamins and minerals our bodies need to thrive.

Research has touted them as being thenumber one food for longevity, to boot!

Cheesy Black Bean & Quinoa Skillet Casserole

Photo: Rachel Marek

And last but not least, beans can be really flavorful and satisfying.

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Serve with a piece of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Eggs in Tomato Sauce with Chickpeas & Spinach

Photographer/Antonis Achilleos, Prop Stylist/Kay Clarke, Food Stylist/Emily Nabors Hall

Be sure to use heavy cream; a lower-fat option might curdle when mixed with acidic tomatoes.

If desired, add a little shredded Gruyere or Cheddar cheese to the biscuit dough.

Classic Hummus

It’s easy to make hummus at home with just a few pantry items.

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Serve drizzled with your best-quality extra-virgin olive oil and chopped parsley.

Mop it up with warm whole-wheat pita bread or cut-up vegetables.

We love the smoky heat from the ground chipotle, but omit it if you prefer a mild chili.

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Serve with tortilla chips or cornbread and coleslaw.

Sharp Cheddar cheese flavors the filling and adds a layer of ooey-gooey melted cheese on top.

Chickpea Coconut Curry

Here, coconut milk adds creaminess while keeping the dish vegan.

Sweet Potato & Black Bean Chili

Photographer/Antonis Achilleos, Prop Stylist/Kay Clarke, Food Stylist/Emily Nabors Hall

Serve over basmati rice or with a side of naan.

Sweet Potato-Black Bean Tacos

Tender, smoky sweet potato is the star of these vegetarian tacos.

A mashed black bean spread with onion holds everything in place.

Creamy White Bean Soup

Caitlin Bensel

Serve with your favorite taco toppings.

The extra dressing is delicious served with grilled vegetables.

Serve it with slices of whole-wheat bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying lunch or dinner.

Coconut Curried Chickpeas

Dera Burreson

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Sweet Potato-Black Bean Tacos

Will Dickey

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Tuscan White Bean Soup

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