Easy Vegan Recipes With a Can of Beans

Published September 4, 2025 by Rebecca Libauskas.

Many of us know the “struggle meal” after an unexpected bill. Or maybe you just really love beans. We get it; they’re savory, versatile, and nutrient-dense, usually costing less than 2 dollars a can. Compare that to animal-derived foods, which not only cost more at the register, but also cost the lives of animals who feel joy, fear, and love—just like humans.

There are so many things we can make with this pantry staple. So, we asked PETA staff to make something with a can of beans. Here’s what they came up with:

Black Beans

“I threw together a black bean protein bowl—a perfect recovery meal for PETA pack runners!” Christopher Merrow, Director of Corporate Partnership

Garbanzo Beans

“When I’m on the road, helping lonely dogs chained outdoors, I need something to grab and go. I made chickpea ‘tuna’ salad sandwich.” Ashley Beard, Senior Field Outreach Worker

Lentils

“After the last demo, where I wore a unicorn suit to tell everyone ‘Vegan Cheese Is Magical!’, I went home and made a savory curry with lentils.” Melissa Sanger, Staff Writer

Beyond the Bean

Beans can save us money, but the savings don’t stop there. A new study published in JAMA Network Open reveals that switching to low-fat vegan meals could save Americans over $650 a year compared to a meat- and dairy-heavy diet. But the true cost of animal-derived foods extends far beyond the checkout line. Cows cry out when their calves are taken from them, and mother pigs sing to their babies while nursing. Chickens are social, affectionate birds who mourn when a friend dies. We can help animals exploited for food by leaving them off our plates.

Going vegan isn’t just about spending less; it’s about living more compassionately. So order our free vegan starter kit if you’re a new vegan, or order one for a family member, friend, coworker, or even a little free bookshop.

Order Your Free Vegan Starter Kit!