Beans for Heart

They may not be glamorous, but canned beans are convenient, cheap, and versatile. They’re also highly nutritious—and a powerful way to lower cholesterol. Here are a few ways to work them into your diet. Just be sure to rinse them before using, since many packers add lots of salt.

1. Use one half-cup of black beans and jarred salsa as a filling for your omelet.

2. Make a bean salad with canned black beans, corn, chopped cilantro, chopped onion and chopped tomato. Drizzle with olive oil and a dash of vinegar, salt and pepper.

3. Spread non-fat refried beans on a whole-wheat burrito and sprinkle with chopped chicken and low-fat shredded cheese.