In the field of nutrition, everyone has heard

about the health benefits of cruciferous

vegetables, like broccoli and dark, leafy

greens, such as spinach and kale. Not as

much attention is given to legumes such as

beans, lentils, and peas, which contain a

vast amount of essential nutrients,

especially for vegetarians and vegans.

Available in multiple varieties, beans and peas technically qualify as part of the protein food group due to their considerably high protein content. However, they also fall into the vegetable category due to high levels of fiber, folate, and potassium. Because many Americans consume too few of these nutrients, the USDA recommends beans and peas for individuals eating any kind of diet.

While many kinds of beans qualify for the

beans and peas category, green peas

and lima beans technically belong to

the starchy vegetable group. In the

same vein, green beans are often

grouped with lettuce, cabbage, onions,

and celery due to their relatively low

nutrient content.