Creative Ways With HUMBLE BEANS

Fast, easy and flavorful, these recipes give protein- and fiber-rich beans a delicious facelift

As the popularity of plant-based diets has risen in recent years, so too has the profile of beans. Long designated as an addon or last resort, beans are one of the easiest ways to add bulk to a plant-based meal plan. So we were thrilled to find the new cookbook Bangin' Beans, which proves just how delicious canned beans can be. "Beans make such great vehicles for flavor and are a brilliant way to add protein to plant-based meals without breaking the bank," says author Sarah Doig. They're also incredibly versatile, able to serve as the centerpiece of a meal or blended in as part of the whole. Try one of these tasty recipes tonight!

TOMATO AND BUTTER BEAN SOUP

Serves 4

3 cups tomatoes, chopped into large chunks

4 cloves garlic, peeled

¼ tsp. salt

2 tsp. olive oil

2 tbsp. tomato paste

1 tsp. smoked paprika

1 tsp. chili flakes

1 (14-oz.) can butter beans, drained and rinsed

2½ cups vegetable broth

1 tsp. agave or sugar, to taste (optional)

1. Heat oven to 400°F. Spread tomatoes and garlic on a baking tray and sprinkle with 1/4 tsp. salt, plus more to taste. Drizzle with oil. Roast 15 to 20 min., or until tomatoes are soft and blistered.