Calories in White Beans: Full Nutrition Breakdown

White beans are a broad category of mild-flavored, creamy legumes that includes navy beans, cannellini beans, Great Northern beans, and baby lima beans. One cup of cooked white beans provides approximately 17.4 grams of protein, 11.3 grams of fiber, and is exceptionally rich in iron, folate, magnesium, and potassium. Their neutral flavor and smooth texture make them one of the most versatile beans for soups, salads, dips, and baked dishes.

Calories by serving size:

White beans are among the richest plant-based sources of potassium, with one cup providing about 829 mg, roughly 18% of the daily value. They also deliver significant amounts of iron and calcium, making them an especially important food for vegetarians and vegans looking to meet their mineral needs through whole foods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the different types of white beans?

The most common types of white beans include navy beans (small and dense, often used in baked beans), cannellini beans (large and kidney-shaped, popular in Italian cooking), Great Northern beans (medium-sized with a mild flavor), and baby lima beans (buttery and slightly flat). While their sizes and textures differ, their nutritional profiles are broadly similar, with only minor variations in calorie and fiber content.

Are white beans the healthiest beans?

White beans are among the healthiest beans due to their exceptionally high fiber, protein, and mineral content, but no single bean variety is definitively the healthiest. They stand out for having more iron and potassium than most other common beans. However, black beans lead in antioxidants, and soybeans provide more protein, so the "healthiest" bean depends on your individual nutritional priorities.

How much fiber is in a cup of white beans?

One cup of cooked white beans provides approximately 11.3 grams of fiber, which is about 40% of the recommended daily intake of 28 grams. This fiber is a mix of both soluble and insoluble types, supporting healthy cholesterol levels and regular digestion. Eating white beans regularly has been associated with improved gut health and better blood sugar control.

Can white beans be used to make dips and purees?

White beans are ideal for dips and purees because of their naturally creamy, mild-flavored flesh that blends smoothly. A popular preparation is white bean dip, made by blending cooked beans with garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs like rosemary or thyme. White bean puree can also serve as a lower-calorie substitute for mashed potatoes or as a base for thickening soups.

Are canned white beans as good as dried?

Canned white beans retain nearly all the protein, fiber, and mineral content of their dried and home-cooked counterparts. The main nutritional difference is sodium, as canned beans can contain 400 to 700 mg per serving compared to virtually none in home-cooked dried beans. Draining and rinsing canned beans reduces sodium by about 40%, making them a quick, nutritious pantry staple.