Better with Beans

Low in fat and packed with fibre, beans are a source of quality protein and are extremely
versatile. Whether baked into muffins, added to tacos, or mixed into any favourite dish, the mild,
complementary flavour helps everyday families make healthy choices easier and every meal
better—everything is Better with Beans.

Recipe:

Aji Verde Dense Bean Salad

The internet is buzzing with dense bean salads right now. After some Tik Tok investigation, I was surprised to learn that I have been making them for years! A big, protein bomb salad that keeps in the fridge all week that I can reach for a couple of times a day keeps me alive when life gets super hectic. It gets better every day as the ingredients marinate in the dressing, too. Instead of a basic vinaigrette, I like to make my favourite Peruvian sauce/condiment for the dressing. Despite the mayo (you can use low-fat mayo), it is not heavy, it is a bit spicy, it’s tangy, and it’s pretty and delicious.
You can make this salad vegan using vegan mayo and feta. It is low fat, protein rich, high fibre and dense – it will fill you up and keep you feeling full. I used a combo of white and black beans, but you can use whatever you have. Just remember to make it colourful, crunchy and deliciously beany.

Recipe:

Italian Bean Soup with Homemade Maltagliati pasta

There is nothing better than wrapping your hands around a beautiful soulful bowl of Italian bean soup as autumn comes into the air with its cooler temperatures. This soup hosts lovely tender tasty borlotti beans (also known as Romano beans) in a delightful broth made with garlic, peperoncino, mirepoix, prosciutto and aromatics of fresh thyme and rosemary. More so, a comforting homemade maltagliati (oddly cut) pasta that just adds another level of texture and a touch of umami from beautifully aged Parmigiano. This soup is a huge hug in a bowl. Craving some comfort, try this traditional Italian dish! You won’t be disappointed!

Recipe:

Italian White Bean Skillet

This easy skillet meal is comforting, satisfying, and nutritious. Best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes and makes a great meatless weeknight meal. Serve it with a crusty baguette to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Feel free to add more vegetables such as sliced mushrooms, chopped zucchini, peppers or eggplant before adding the tomatoes.

Recipe:

Cucumber Salad with Beans

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the vibrant and refreshing flavours of this
Cucumber Salad with Beans! Crisp English cucumbers, white pea beans, and zesty red onion unite in a medley of deliciousness. The dressing, bursting with notes of sweet, salty and sour, will take your entire meal to the next level.

Recipe:

Lemony Herbed White Bean and Rice Soup

Inspired by Greek flavours, this comforting white bean soup combines the freshness of dill, thyme, and lemon with hearty white kidney beans and kale. With bright citrus notes and earthy herbs, this soup is a cozy yet light dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxing weekend lunch.

Perfectly Paired:

Discover the delicious and nutritious power of:

Beans + Turkey

Beans and turkey are a dynamic duo that can be transformed into countless delicious dishes. From hearty stews to flavourful salads, the possibilities are endless. Explore new recipes and elevate your culinary skills with this versatile combination.

Beans + Eggs

Support local farmers and reduce your environmental impact with beans and eggs. These sustainable ingredients are not only good for you but also good for the planet.

Beans + Eggs: Perfectly Paired

Support local farmers and reduce your environmental impact with beans and eggs. These sustainable ingredients are not only good for you but also good for the planet.

Types of Beans

Ontario grows nine types of beans. Learn more about each variety here.

Nutrition & Health

It’s commonly known that beans are good for you — but do you know how good?

Bean Basics

Learn how to properly store, select, soak and cook Ontario beans.

Better with Beans

Learn more about this amazing superfood
and why everything is better with beans!