Need More Protein and Fiber? Try This Lucky Legume!

By Melinda Hershey, for SparkPeople

Although you're probably putting a plan in place to reach your healthy goals in 2013, a little extra luck couldn't hurt, right? In some countries, it is customary to eat legumes for good luck in the new year. Many southerners in the US traditionally make Hoppin' John--a dish made of rice, onions, pork and black-eyed peas. Due to their coin-like shape, lentils are also eaten in many cultures to symbolize a prosperous new year. If you were to pick the more nutrient-rich legume to kick off a lucky 2013, would black-eyed peas or lentils be the better choice?

The Winner: Lentils!
Per a ½-cup cooked serving, lentils contain 115 calories, 8 grams of fiber, and 9 grams of protein. Although black-eyed peas have fewer calories per serving (100 calories), they also contain less filling fiber (5.5 grams) and protein (6.5 grams).

Love legumes? Check out the table below for a nutritional comparison of some of the most common varieties. (All nutrition values are for a ½-cup serving of plain, boiled legumes.)

What's your favorite legume? Do you have any fun food traditions for New Year's?

Related links:
Cheap and Easy Bean Dinners
10 Filling, Healthy Lunches
Tasty Fava Bean Recipes

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