16 Flexitarian Recipes Featuring Legumes

A can of butter beans is mashed and added to these lean turkey meatballs. "These meatballs were delicious and so moist," says user Abby1919. "The beans added an amazing flavor."

The use of rich sausage in this hearty soup is offset by a healthy dose of lentils. Choose brown lentils, and you'll achieve a more chunky texture; red lentils will break down and create a more creamy dish. 

Nothing is more comforting than a casserole, and this recipe really proves the rule. Cornbread is the base with a layer of seasoned ground turkey combined with chili and cannellini beans. 

These easy lettuce wraps are a great light lunch option, simply meal prep the filling during the week and pack the lettuce separately.

Using a little meat as a flavoring for legumes is a great way to boost flavor while being health conscious. Here, butter beans are sautéed with pieces of bacon and rocket lettuce (aka, arugula). 

Change up your rice and beans game with this Middle Eastern-inspired dish that pairs turkey with two types of beans. 

Fire up the slow cooker in the morning, and you'll be rewarded with this spicy stew. Don't forget to serve with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkling of cilantro!

These lighter patties may knock beef burgers out of the weekly rotation. "So quick and easy, fail-proof!" says user krisieyo1. 

An unusual combination that you'll be glad you tried, this new twist on chili features curry powder and mango chutney for a big boost of flavor. 

Ready in just 40 minutes, this Italian-inspired dish is packed with flavor thanks to a range of herbs. 

Chicken, lentils, and carrots simmer in tomato sauce until tender in this unusual (but delicious) recipe. 

There's no need to complicate dinner. Here's a simple yet satisfying meal -- "a really delicious and quick shrimp salad," says Colorado Karen. 

A traditional Moroccan dish, this hearty stew uses lamb, lentils, and chickpeas. VTdadathome says, "Amazingly wonderful flavor and very hearty!"

Combine everyone's two favorite foods – burgers and tacos — in this kid-friendly recipe that's quick to fix.

With just a few simple pantry items you can whip up these impressive burgers that are made with a base of salmon and great Northern beans. 

Turkey and lentils combine to create a hearty chili that's perfect for a cold evening or an afternoon of watching football. "A favorite of mine -- make it at least once a month," says Natalie Hahn.