Jan. 6 is National Bean Day, and there’s a lot to celebrate about the humble bean. Beans are packed with nutrition, can be prepared to suit everyone’s tastes, and are more environmentally sustainable than other sources of protein.
Beans are a nutrition powerhouse. With high amounts of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, it’s no surprise that the American Heart Association recommends adding beans to your diet. And since beans are so versatile, there are many ways to add them to your diet.
- Try incorporating beans into your favorite soup and pasta recipes.
- Find your favorite version of beans and rice from around the globe.
- Add a creamy bean spread in place of mayonnaise on sandwiches.
- Try elaborate dishes like this puff pastry wrapped lentil loaf for a festive main dish.
In addition to having a positive impact on your health, eating beans has an immense impact on the health of the planet. Growing beans requires many times less land, fertilizer, and water than animal agriculture. Read more about the environmental impact from the sustainability alliance.
Looking for a simple and easy bean dish to get started? Check out this three-bean salad recipe from Mission Healthy Living.
