National Bean Day: Our 8 favorite recipes to celebrate!

Happy National Bean Day!

I know that, as a Latina, you must be just as excited about this food holiday as I am. It's no secret that our culture uses beans in a LOT of our favorite recipes. I mean, as a Cubana, I practically grew up on my abuelita's black beans alongside white rice, platanitos, and steak. Although I eat pretty differently these days (often opting for healthier versions of my Latin favorites), I still love beans. They're full of protein, flavor and, most of all, are a great warming dish during these cold months. So, go ahead and dig in to our 8 favorite Latin bean recipes to celebrate National Bean Day! I guarantee you'll love it.

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Cuban Bistec de Palomilla with White Rice & Black Beans

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Irina Gonzalez

One of my favorite recipes because, well, this one is straight from my abuelita's heart: Cuban black beans that are absolutely to DIE FOR alongside the classic steak.

Get the full recipe directions here.

Mexican Refried Beans

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MaryMakesDinner/flickr

Mexican refried beans, which are made with pinto beans, are one of my favorite dips. They're also great for the inside of burritos, tacos and even quesadillas. Dig in!

Get the full recipe directions here.

Vegetable Feijoada, a.k.a. Brazilian rice and beans

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Naturally Ella

This traditional Brazilian dish, here made into a health and vegetarian-friendly version, is a great dish for the whole family. The best part: it's a perfect hearty winter meal!

Get the full recipe directions here.

Smashed White Bean and Avocado Club

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Real Simple

What can be better than some beans that you can actualy take to work for a lovely lunch? That's why I love this sandwich, which is great for you AND the kids!

Get the full recipe directions here.

Spicy Bean with Bacon Soup

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Angela Schmeidel Randall/flickr

What's a story about bean recipes without a bean soup? The reason why I love this one more than the rest, though, is because it's got a kick alongside some bacon. Delish…

Get the full recipe directions here.

Spanish One-Pot Green Beans & Potatoes

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Simple Spanish Food

Well, who says that your favorite beans can't be green AND perfect for breakfast? This delicious Spanish dish is pretty much just what you'll love serving in the A.M.!

Get the full recipe directions here.

Quinoa, Black Bean & Garbanzos Salad

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bezajel/flickr

Well, I couldn't help myself! I just had to include a recipe that's not only diet-friendly but also one that has a double-dose of beans: black beans and garbanzo beans! YUM.

Get the full recipe directions here.

Anafres, a.k.a. Honduran bean fondue

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Urban Sea Star/flickr

Did you know that you can actually make a great fondue out of beans? I sure didn't! Well, that is, until I came across this fantastic Honduran recipe that is party-perfect.

Get the full recipe directions here.