You just read an article on how great beans are for you, so you stocked up at the grocery store. Now what?

Beans, lentils, and split peas are essential in a healthy diet. They have 7 grams of fiber and 7 grams of protein per half-cup serving. Their fiber helps shuttle cholesterol and other undesirables out of the body, helps you feel full faster, and eat fewer calories overall. Plus, they are great sources of brain-enhancing B vitamins, calcium for bones and teeth, and folic acid.

Here are 30 ways to enjoy beans and their benefits, starting with a sweet red bean concoction:

1. Thai Red Bean Dessert
2. Hummus
3. Pinto bean dip
4. Added to salsa (black beans are delish)
5. Pasta E Fagioli
6. Veggie chili
7. Lentil soup
8. Bean burritos
9. Added to stir-fries (white beans work well)
10. Added to any soup
11. Added to marinara sauce (dried red lentils hide well and cook quickly)
12. Instead of meat in any casserole or stew
13. Black-Eyed Pea Curry
14. Blended and mixed with spinach and garlic for a layer in lasagna
15. Edamame
16. Baked beans as a side dish
17. Split pea soup
18. Red Lentil Dal
19. 3-Bean salad
20. Chickpea Ratatouille
21. Added to salads (Kidney beans and garbanzos are yum)
22. For breakfast: beans and salsa on toast
23. Lentil Artichoke Stew
24. Falafel
25. Straight out of the can, drained & rinsed… a great snack!
26. White Bean Spread with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
27. Mashed and stuffed into pita bread for lunch
28. Cannellini Beans with Kale
29. Mixed with finely chopped veggies and low-fat vinaigrette dressing
30. Mixed with brown rice, salt, and pepper