[weight losing mama]

Hello everyone! I am new to the South Beach Diet, just started it the first of the year. I am doing well but having trouble eating all the darn beans Does anyone have suggestions or can you substitute anything for the beans?
Thanks for any help

[EmmaD]

I don't think you are required to eat beans! They are high in fiber and filling, so they are great if you like them, but I don't think you have to force yourself to eat them if you don't like them. I often don't have beans...

BUT if you do want to eat more beans, experiment with different kinds ... like red lentils that dissolve when you cook them in soups. Or garbanzo beans/chickpeas that you can make into a delicious salad (look in the recipes for "mock tuna salad" - here it is: http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/sala...chickpeas.html - I waited a long time to try that because I thought it sounded weird, but it is so good!) or hummus (there are many flavors - I love roasted garlic and spicy red pepper) as a dip for veggies. Or some of the bean cakes/muffins (also sounds quite weird but many people love them). White beans are quite mild in flavor and make a great base for an Italian white bean salad (w/ or w/out tuna) or a soup (kale and white bean soup, for example).

Have fun experimenting!

[weight losing mama]

Thanks for the advice. I have not read the book yet so I wasn't sure if they were required or not. I apreciate the help.

[jenne1017]

I also love the http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/snac...hick-peas.html recipe!