When you’re tasked with bringing a side dish with beans to an outdoor picnic, how do you make it you know…stand out?
No shade to beans, but they’re not the most exciting food on their own, however, the legume is highly nutritious and should be enjoyed regularly. Blue Apron Nutritionist Jessica Halper, MPH, RNutr has just the trick for jazzing up a can of black beans, too. The secret? Pick your favorite seasoning, a jar of olive oil, and a saucepan. (Related: 100 Easiest Recipes You Can Make)
“The mixture of seasoning and black beans creates a smoky, spicy, and rich filling as a base for tacos, flautas, a vegetable skillet, or plant-based quinoa bowl,” she says. “Another simple but tasty trick, mixing black beans with aromatics like chopped garlic or sliced scallions elevate their flavor.”
Consider adding a mix of chili and garlic powders, black pepper, and a dash of sea salt to your black beans for a quick, robust seasoning. Another idea? Blue Apron’s Black Bean & Smoked Gouda Flautas recipe calls for a Mexican Spice Blend, complete with ancho chile powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, and dried Mexican oregano.
Black beans also provide a host of health benefits, so now that you have a few pointers on how to season them, you may be more apt to incorporate them into more meals and more regularly.
“Beans are a protein-packed superfood that are loaded with antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can help improve inflammation and gut health, among many other health benefits,” says Halper.
“Their high fiber count can make you feel fuller for longer and keep blood sugar spikes at bay,” Halper continues. “They are also high in folate, which is a critical b-vitamin for muscle recovery.”
Here’s to more flavorful beans! For more, be sure to check out 17 Delicious Recipes Featuring a Simple Can of Beans.
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