The best part about legumes is that they come in varieties, which means that you can enjoy a variety of flavors and dishes throughout the year. Here are some of the best recipes with seasonal legumes that you should try.
1. Black Eyed Pea Salad
Black-eyed peas are typically grown and harvested during the summer months, making them a perfect ingredient for a summer salad. To make a black-eyed pea salad, combine cooked black-eyed peas with diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. Toss this mixture with a dressing made of olive oil, vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Top with crumbled feta cheese for a delicious and satisfying summer salad.
2. Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew
Chickpeas are harvested in the fall, making them a great ingredient for fall soups and stews. To make a chickpea and sweet potato stew, start by sautéing onions, garlic, and diced sweet potatoes in olive oil. Once the sweet potatoes are soft, add cooked chickpeas, vegetable broth, and canned tomatoes. Season with paprika, cumin, and chili powder for a warm and comforting stew.
3. Lentil and Butternut Squash Curry
Lentils are a winter crop, making them perfect for warming dishes such as curries. To make a lentil and butternut squash curry, start by sautéing garlic, onions, and diced butternut squash in coconut oil. Once the are soft, add cooked lentils, coconut milk, and curry powder. Allow the mixture to simmer until the butternut squash is tender. Serve over rice for a hearty and satisfying winter meal.
4. Spring Pea and Ham Soup
Spring peas are harvested during the spring months, making them a perfect ingredient for a springtime soup. To make a spring pea and ham soup, start by sautéing onions and diced ham in a large pot. Once the ham is browned and the onions are translucent, add vegetable broth and fresh or frozen peas. Allow the soup to simmer until the peas are tender. Puree the soup in a blender or with an immersion blender for a creamy and delicious soup.
In conclusion, legumes are versatile and affordable ingredients that can be used in a variety of dishes throughout the year. Whether you are looking for a healthy summer salad or a warm and comforting winter stew, legumes have got you covered. Try these seasonal legume recipes to add variety and taste to your meals.