Canned beans have an image problem.

When one thinks of tinned legumes, images of campfire dinners and struggle meals come to mind. Some might also associate the toot fruits with a bland flavor profile and how the labels are generally lacking in the looks department.

But beans also have a lot going for them—they’re versatile and can be incorporated into the main dish or served on the side. Being plant-based is a given, and beans can be seasoned and spiced up while maintaining that vegan pedigree.