National Bean Day – January 6th

Beans are one of the oldest cultivated plants. People started cultivating beans as early as seventh millennium BC. Beans are a great source of protein and fiber. They are low in fat and high in iron making them a perfect health food. There are almost 40,000 bean varieties in the world but only a small number of these are regularly consumed.

Beans are easy to add to many casseroles and soups. They add flavor and body to many dishes. They can also be the main ingredient in many dishes.

Bean Soups

A hearty bean soup is warm and statisfying on a cold winter day. You can check out more bean soup recipes on Pinterest.

Campbell’s Bean & Bacon soup is one of my favorites. This homemade version has less sodium and looks perfect.

**Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup – Taste & Tell**

This White Bean and Sausage Soup includes spinach for a splash of color and sausage for some added flavor.

One Skillet White Bean and Sausage Soup — **One Skillet White Bean and Sausage Stew – Eat. Drink. Smile.**

Baked Beans

Baked beans serve as a favorite side for summer cookouts. These Southern Style Baked Beans topped with Bacon look amazing.

These Baked Beans from Stylish Cuisine combine four different types of beans for a colorful blend of flavors and textures.

For more delicious baked bean recipes check out my Baked Beans Pinterest Board.

Bean Salads

Beans make an appearance in another summer picnic favorite, Three Bean Salad. This one looks perfect.

This Greek Garbanzo Bean Salad is loaded with fresh vegetables and garbanzo beans and looks like a perfect alternative to the classic three bean salad.

Bean Dips and Appetizers

You can always sneak your beans in as a fun snack or appetizer. You can add some black beans to your nachos to sneak in some additional fiber. Hummus has become a popular snack and the store bought versions are really good. I like mine with olive tapenade.

This 7 layer bean dip practically counts as a health food. It is loaded with beans and avocados.