A can of beans + fresh ingredients = your easy dinner tonight, in 30 minutes or less
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1 /13Annabelle Breakey
Ruby Swiss Chard and White Bean Soup
We like the robust flavor of red Swiss chard when paired with creamy, slightly sweet white beans. You could also make it with green Swiss chard, which is milder, or spinach.
3 /13Photo by Annabelle Breakey; written by Stephanie Spencer
Chorizo Refried Beans
Chorizo makes these velvety beans extra-rich and savory. If you're in a real rush (or don't want chorizo), just microwave the beans, thinned with a bit of water, while you're making the huevos rancheros.
4 /13Photo by Annabelle Breakey; written by Stephanie Spencer
Black Bean Soup with Avocado, Orange, and Cucumber
We left the soup chunky with a clear broth, but you could easily purée it to create a smooth soup. Just don't skip the avocado mixture, as it makes a refreshing contrast to the beans and spice.
6 /13Photo by Thomas J. Story; written by Stephanie Spencer
Garlicky White Bean Dip
This Mediterranean-inspired dip is the perfect appetizer for last-minute entertaining and a nice break from one of our other favorite bean dips, hummus.
10 /13Photo by Jeffery Cross; written by Stephanie Spencer
Black Bean Tomatillo Dip
What's good about it: Puréed beans are, of course, low in fat. Tomatillos add vitamin C and so much flavor, you won't even miss the usual cheese. Serve with baked tortilla chips.
12 /13Photo by Annabelle Breakey; written by Stephanie Spencer
Shrimp and White Bean Salad with Harissa Dressing
You'll find yourself turning to this simple salad of tender white beans and sweet shrimp often. You might want to taste the dressing as you make it and adjust the quantity of harissa accordingly, though, since the heat varies by brand.
Earthy sweet potatoes add depth to this vegetarian chili. New Mexico chile powder is fruity and mild, so don’t be scared off by the generous amount called for here. Feel free to swap in any other kind of chile powder you have on hand—just use less of it.