Rinse dried or canned beans before use
Soak dried beans overnight or use a quick-soak method
Drain and discard soaking water
Simmer beans in fresh water until tender
Add salt near the end of cooking
Cook beans with onion, garlic, bay leaf, or herbs for flavor
Use cooked beans in soups, stews, salads, and casseroles
Mash beans for dips, spreads, or fillings
Blend beans into sauces or purees
Add beans to rice, pasta, or grain dishes
Roast beans for a crispy snack
Store cooked beans in the refrigerator
Freeze extra cooked beans in portions
Use canned beans for faster meals
Heat canned beans before serving
Season beans with spices, citrus, vinegar, or oil
Pair beans with vegetables, meats, or grains
Check beans for doneness before removing from heat