Are you ready to spice up your mealtime routine? Look no further! Pink beans, also known as pinto beans or kidney beans, are a versatile ingredient that can add flavor and nutrition to any dish. Whether youβre looking for a hearty stew, a creamy soup, or a fresh salad, pink bean recipes have got you covered.
In this article, weβll be exploring 18 delicious pink bean recipes perfect for every occasion. From spicy stews to savory casseroles, weβve got a recipe thatβs sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. So grab your apron and letβs get cooking!
Spicy Pink Bean and Chorizo Stew
This vibrant stew combines the creamy texture of pink beans with the spicy kick of chorizo, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
β 1 can pink beans, drained and rinsed
β 2 Spanish chorizos, sliced
β 1 onion, diced
β 3 garlic cloves, minced
β 1 red bell pepper, diced
β 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
β 1 teaspoon ground cumin
β Salt and black pepper, to taste
β 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chorizos and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the bell pepper and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add the pink beans, browned chorizos, and cilantro (if using). Simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Pink Bean Soup with Garlic Bread
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting and flavorful soup. The creamy pink bean mixture is infused with the richness of garlic, creating a perfect blend of savory and sweet.
Ingredients:
β 1 cup dried pink beans
β 4 cups vegetable broth
β 2 cloves garlic, minced
β 2 tablespoons butter
β 1/2 cup heavy cream
β Salt and pepper, to taste
β 4 slices bread (for garlic bread)
β Garlic powder, for seasoning
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dried pink beans and soak them in water overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the beans again, then transfer them to a large pot with vegetable broth.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes or until the beans are tender.
4. In a small pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sautΓ© for 1 minute.
5. Stir in heavy cream and cook until heated through.
6. Combine the bean mixture with the garlic cream sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Preheat oven to 350Β°F (180Β°C). Slice bread, spread butter on each slice, and sprinkle with garlic powder. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pink Bean and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creamy texture of avocado with the sweet flavor of pink beans, all tied together with a zesty dressing.
Ingredients:
β 1 cup cooked pink beans (such as kidney or pinto beans)
β 2 ripe avocados, diced
β 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
β 2 cloves garlic, minced
β 1 tablespoon olive oil
β Salt and pepper to taste
β Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pink beans and diced avocado.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean-avocado mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pink Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos
Get ready to experience a flavorful fusion of sweet potatoes and pink beans in a vibrant taco! This recipe combines the comfort of roasted sweet potatoes with the creamy goodness of pink beans, all wrapped up in a crispy corn tortilla.
Ingredients:
β 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
β 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
β 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
β 1 lime, juiced
β 1 tablespoon olive oil
β Salt and pepper to taste
β 8-10 corn tortillas
β Shredded cheese (optional)
β Salsa and avocado for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C). Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large pan, heat pink beans over medium heat. Add chopped cilantro and lime juice. Stir to combine.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by filling tortillas with roasted sweet potatoes, pink bean mixture, and shredded cheese (if using). Top with salsa and avocado.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pink Bean Hummus with Pita Chips
Experience the unique flavor of pink beans in this deliciously sweet and savory hummus, perfectly paired with crispy pita chips. This recipe is a twist on traditional hummus, using cooked pink beans instead of chickpeas.
Ingredients:
β 1 1/2 cups cooked pink beans
β 1/4 cup lemon juice
β 1/4 cup tahini
β 2 cloves garlic, minced
β 1/2 teaspoon salt
β 3 tablespoons olive oil
β 1/4 cup pita chips
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the cooked pink beans.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the pink beans, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in the olive oil until well combined.
4. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl.
5. Serve with pita chips for dipping.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Pink Bean and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
Add a pop of color and flavor to your meal with these vibrant stuffed peppers filled with pink beans, quinoa, and spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
β 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
β 1 cup cooked pink beans (such as kidney beans or pinto beans)
β 1 cup cooked quinoa
β 1 small onion, finely chopped
β 2 cloves garlic, minced
β 1 teaspoon cumin
β 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
β Salt and pepper to taste
β 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pink beans, quinoa, onion, garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the bean mixture, filling to the top.
4. Drizzle tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pink Bean and Cornbread Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the comfort of cornbread with the sweetness of pink beans, perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
β’ 1 cup pink beans (canned), drained and rinsed
β’ 2 cups cornbread mix
β’ 1/4 cup water
β’ 1/4 cup milk
β’ 2 tablespoons butter, melted
β’ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
β’ Salt to taste
β’ Optional toppings: cheddar cheese, chopped scallions, or sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine pink beans, water, milk, and melted butter. Mix well.
3. Add the cornbread mix and stir until just combined.
4. Pour mixture into a 9Γ13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with optional toppings, if desired.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown and casserole is set.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pink Bean and Spinach Curry
Pink Bean and Spinach Curry Recipe
This vibrant curry recipe combines the creamy texture of pink beans with the earthy flavor of spinach, creating a deliciously healthy and filling meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
β 1 cup dried pink beans, soaked overnight and drained
β 2 tablespoons olive oil
β 1 onion, chopped
β 3 cloves garlic, minced
β 1 teaspoon ground cumin
β 1 teaspoon curry powder
β 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
β 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
β 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
β Salt and pepper to taste
β Water or vegetable broth, as needed
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in soaked pink beans, diced tomatoes, spinach leaves, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in water or broth as needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pink Bean and Sausage Jambalaya
This hearty jambalaya dish combines the rich flavors of pink beans, spicy sausage, and savory rice for a true Louisiana-inspired culinary experience.
Ingredients:
β 1 cup uncooked white rice
β 2 cups water
β 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
β 1 medium onion, chopped
β 3 cloves garlic, minced
β 1 can pink beans (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
β 1 tsp dried oregano
β 1/2 tsp paprika
β Salt and pepper to taste
β 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove sausage from skillet; set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to skillet; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add pink beans, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked rice to skillet, stirring to combine with bean mixture.
6. Return sausage to skillet; stir to combine.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pink Bean and Tomato Pasta
This vibrant pasta dish combines the natural sweetness of pink beans with the tanginess of fresh tomatoes, all wrapped up in a light and creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
β 8 oz. pasta of your choice
β 1 cup cooked pink beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
β 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
β 2 tbsp. olive oil
β 2 cloves garlic, minced
β 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
β Salt and pepper to taste
β Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cooked pink beans to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and tomato-bean mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pink Bean and Cheese Quesadillas
A twist on traditional quesadillas, these pink bean and cheese filled tortillas are a flavorful and vibrant treat. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner thatβs sure to impress.
Ingredients:
β 1 cup cooked pink beans (such as black beans or pinto beans)
β 2 tablespoons olive oil
β 1 small onion, diced
β 1 clove garlic, minced
β 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
β 4 large tortillas
β Salt and pepper to taste
β Optional: chopped cilantro, sour cream, or salsa for topping
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked pink beans and cook until heated through.
5. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
6. Spoon the bean mixture onto half of the tortilla, then fold the other half over to enclose.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pink Bean and Kale Soup
This vibrant soup combines the nutty flavor of pink beans with the earthy sweetness of kale, perfect for a cozy and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
β 1 cup dried pink beans, soaked overnight and drained
β 2 cups vegetable broth
β 1 onion, chopped
β 3 cloves garlic, minced
β 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
β 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
β Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sautΓ© the onion and garlic in a little water until tender.
2. Add the soaked pink beans, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the beans are tender.
3. Stir in the chopped kale leaves. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the kale has wilted.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of smoked paprika, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Pink Bean and Rice Burrito Bowls
Elevate your mealtime with this vibrant and nutritious recipe that combines flavorful pink beans with fluffy rice, topped with fresh veggies and crispy tortilla strips. This burrito bowl is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
β 1 cup cooked pink beans (such as adzuki or pinto beans)
β 1 cup cooked white rice
β 1 tablespoon olive oil
β 1 small onion, diced
β 2 cloves garlic, minced
β 1 red bell pepper, diced
β Salt and pepper to taste
β Optional: avocado, shredded cheese, cilantro, and salsa for topping
Instructions:
1. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cooked pink beans, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Divide rice and bean mixture between bowls. Top with diced red bell pepper and crispy tortilla strips (optional).
6. Serve immediately and customize with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pink Bean and Bacon Chili
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Pink Bean and Bacon Chili, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
β 1 can (15 oz) pink beans, drained and rinsed
β 6 slices of bacon, diced
β 1 medium onion, chopped
β 2 cloves of garlic, minced
β 1 red bell pepper, diced
β 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
β 2 cups of beef broth
β 1 teaspoon chili powder
β Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the pot, leaving the drippings behind.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced red bell pepper, pink beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Stir well to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Pink Bean and Coconut Milk Stew
This vibrant stew is a fusion of flavors from around the world, featuring pink beans cooked to perfection in a rich coconut milk broth with aromatic spices. A hearty and comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
β 1 cup dried pink beans, soaked overnight and drained
β 2 tablespoons olive oil
β 1 onion, chopped
β 2 cloves garlic, minced
β 1 teaspoon ground cumin
β 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
β 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
β 4 cups vegetable broth
β Salt and pepper to taste
β Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add cumin, smoked paprika, and pink beans. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in coconut milk and broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 30-40 minutes or until beans are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Pink Bean and Roasted Vegetable Medley
A vibrant and flavorful medley of roasted vegetables paired with creamy pink beans, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
β 1 cup dried pink beans, soaked overnight and drained
β 2 tablespoons olive oil
β 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
β 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped
β 1 small zucchini, chopped
β 1 small red onion, chopped
β Salt and pepper to taste
β Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425Β°F (220Β°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine pink beans, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
3. Spread the bean mixture on a baking sheet in an even layer.
4. Roast the vegetables on a separate baking sheet with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss occasionally until tender, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Combine the roasted beans and vegetables in a serving dish. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pink Bean and Egg Breakfast Skillet
Start your day with a flavorful and filling breakfast skillet that combines creamy pink beans, scrambled eggs, and savory spices. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy morning meal.
Ingredients:
β 1 cup cooked pink beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
β 4 large eggs
β 1 small onion, diced
β 2 cloves garlic, minced
β 1 tablespoon olive oil
β 1 teaspoon ground cumin
β Salt and pepper to taste
β Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the cooked pink beans and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Crack in the eggs and scramble them into the bean mixture.
6. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the eggs are set.
8. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pink Bean and Lentil Salad with Lemon Dressing
This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of pink beans with the earthiness of lentils, all tied together with a refreshing lemon dressing. Perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
β 1 cup cooked pink beans
β 1/2 cup cooked brown or green lentils
β 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
β 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
β 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
β 1 tablespoon olive oil
β Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the pink beans, lentils, red bell pepper, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean and lentil mixture, and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with the versatility of pink beans! This article features 18 delicious recipes that showcase the unique flavor and texture of this versatile legume. From hearty stews and soups to salads, tacos, and casseroles, these pink bean recipes are perfect for every occasion. Whether youβre looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat, thereβs something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get creative with pink beans, and discover the endless possibilities!
