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Navy Beans
Legumes
Nutri-ScoreA

Navy Beans

Phaseolus vulgaris

Clinical Encyclopedia

Navy beans are small, oval-shaped, white legumes that are high in protein and fiber. They are known for their mild flavor and creamy texture, making them a popular choice in soups and stews.

Scientific NamePhaseolus vulgaris
Region of OriginNorth America

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories337 kcal
Water
10%
Fiber25.3g
Total83.6g
Protein
22.3g(27%)
Fats
0.8g(1%)
Carbohydrates
60.5g(72%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Health Benefits

Rich in dietary fiber, navy beans can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve digestive health.
High in protein, they are an excellent plant-based protein source for vegetarians and vegans.
Contain essential vitamins and minerals, including iron and magnesium, which are vital for energy production and muscle function.
Low glycemic index makes them suitable for individuals with diabetes, helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort due to high fiber content.
!Raw or undercooked beans contain toxins that can cause nausea and vomiting.

How to Prepare & Consume

Soak dried navy beans overnight to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. Cook thoroughly to eliminate toxins.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose beans that are uniform in color and free from cracks or blemishes. Avoid beans with a musty smell.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent moisture absorption.

Myths vs Realities

MythEating beans will make you gassy.+
RealityWhile beans can cause gas, soaking and cooking them properly can reduce this effect.
MythAll beans are the same nutritionally.+
RealityDifferent beans have varying nutrient profiles; navy beans are particularly high in fiber and protein.
MythYou can't eat beans if you have a sensitive stomach.+
RealityWith proper preparation, beans can be included in most diets, even for those with sensitive stomachs.

Healthy Recipes

Navy Bean and Quinoa Salad

A refreshing salad combining protein-rich navy beans and quinoa, tossed with vibrant vegetables and a zesty lemon dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked navy beans
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked navy beans and quinoa.
  2. 2. Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
  3. 3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine.

Navy Bean Soup with Spinach

A hearty and nutritious soup featuring navy beans and fresh spinach, perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. 2. Add soaked navy beans, vegetable broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1 hour.
  3. 3. Stir in fresh spinach and season with salt and pepper before serving.

Navy Bean and Sweet Potato Hash

A delicious and filling hash made with navy beans and sweet potatoes, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked navy beans
  • 1 large sweet potato, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add sweet potatoes and cook until tender.
  2. 2. Add onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
  3. 3. Stir in navy beans, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through and serve.

Navy Bean Hummus

A creamy and nutritious twist on traditional hummus, using navy beans for a unique flavor and texture.

Ingredients
  • 1 can (15 oz) navy beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove
  • Salt to taste
  • Water as needed
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, combine navy beans, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to reach desired consistency.
  3. 3. Serve with fresh vegetables or whole-grain pita.

Navy Bean and Vegetable Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring navy beans and a colorful mix of vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked navy beans
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. 2. Add broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot, stir-frying for 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3. Stir in navy beans, soy sauce, and ginger, cooking until heated through.

Navy Bean Tacos

Flavorful and nutritious tacos filled with seasoned navy beans and topped with fresh salsa and avocado.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked navy beans
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 cup salsa
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat navy beans with cumin and chili powder until warmed through.
  2. 2. Warm corn tortillas in a separate pan.
  3. 3. Fill tortillas with navy bean mixture, top with avocado, salsa, and cilantro.

Navy Bean and Kale Stew

A nourishing stew packed with navy beans and kale, simmered in a savory broth for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked navy beans
  • 2 cups kale, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add vegetable broth, navy beans, kale, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.
  3. 3. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Navy Bean and Brown Rice Bowl

A nutritious bowl featuring navy beans and brown rice, topped with roasted vegetables and a tahini dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked navy beans
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss zucchini and bell pepper with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast for 20 minutes.
  2. 2. In a bowl, layer brown rice, navy beans, and roasted vegetables.
  3. 3. Drizzle with tahini before serving.

Navy Bean and Avocado Toast

A simple yet delicious toast topped with mashed avocado and seasoned navy beans, perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked navy beans
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 2 slices whole-grain bread
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Toast the whole-grain bread until golden brown.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mash avocado with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Spread the avocado on toast, top with navy beans, and sprinkle with red pepper flakes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I cook dried navy beans?

Rinse the beans, soak them overnight, then boil in fresh water for 1-2 hours until tender.

Are navy beans gluten-free?

Yes, navy beans are naturally gluten-free and safe for those with gluten intolerance.

Can I eat navy beans raw?

No, raw navy beans contain toxins that can be harmful; they must be cooked thoroughly.

What are the health benefits of navy beans?

They are high in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, promoting heart health and aiding digestion.

How should I store dried navy beans?

Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

How long do dried navy beans last?

When stored properly, dried navy beans can last for several years.

Can navy beans help with weight loss?

Yes, their high fiber content can promote satiety and reduce overall calorie intake.

Are navy beans good for diabetics?

Yes, their low glycemic index helps manage blood sugar levels effectively.