When you think of kidney beans, you may think boring. But despite their lowly culinary status, kidney beans are truly a superfood.

High in both protein and fiber, kidney beans are a low glycemic food that's packed with antioxidants. In fact, kidney beans top blueberries in their ability to quench free-radicals.

Kidney bean cousins include white kidney beans (better known as cannellini beans) which are more mild in flavor than their red-skinned relatives and French kidney beans (called flageolets) -tiny, tender versions of the traditional kidney bean.

Mix kidney beans into soups, sprinkle over salads or try an alluring kidney bean hummus with cumin as an alternative to the standby.

Glycemic Index=28
Glycemic Load=7
Antioxidant Score (ORAC)=8,459

Store dried kidney beans in an airtight container.