The Protein-Packed Crouton Alternative That Makes Salads More Filling

Croutons have long been the go-to for adding crunch to salads—and for good reason. They’re crispy, convenient, and bring a satisfying texture to everything from Caesar to simple greens. But they’re not always the most exciting (or filling) addition, and they tend to lose their crunch quickly once they hit the dressing.

That’s part of why more people are looking to mix up their salad routine with toppings that offer a bit more staying power. One simple swap that’s high in protein and fiber, as well as gluten free: roasted canned beans.

The simple swap: roasted beans

Roasted canned beans—like butter beans, chickpeas, or even lentils—offer the crunch of croutons, but with a little more substance behind them. When roasted, they become golden and crisp on the outside while staying slightly creamy in the center, adding contrast that croutons don’t quite match.

They’re also easy to customize depending on what you’re in the mood for, whether that’s something smoky, spicy, or more simply seasoned with salt and olive oil.

Crispy Butter Beans with seasonings

Why roasted beans are better for you

Beyond texture, roasted beans bring a bit more nutrition to a salad. They naturally contain fiber and plant-based protein, which can help make meals feel more filling and complete—especially if you’re relying on your salad as a main dish. “I love the addition of beans here because they bring both great texture and exceptional nutrition to the table,” says Good Housekeeping Nutrition Director Stefani Sassos, MS, RDN, CDN. “Most people aren’t getting enough fiber, and this is such an easy, delicious way to help close that gap.”

They’re also a whole-food option, meaning you can control exactly how much oil and seasoning goes into them, rather than relying on packaged toppings. “Beans bring a combination of fiber, plant-based protein and even antioxidants, making them a small addition with meaningful nutrition benefits. And rotating the types you use can help you get an even wider range of nutrients,” Sassos explains.

How to make crispy roasted beans at home

The best part: they’re surprisingly simple to make. With just a can of beans and a few pantry staples, you can have a crunchy topping ready in under 30 minutes.

Easy Crispy Butter Beans recipe

Active: 5 min
Total: 30 min
Makes: 1 3/4 cups

Ingredients:

• 1 (15.5-oz) can butter beans, rinsed
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp paprika
• Kosher salt and pepper

Directions:

1. Heat oven to 425°F.
2. On a rimmed baking sheet, toss the butter beans with the oil, cornstarch, paprika, and ¼ teaspoon each salt and pepper.
3. Spread in an even layer and roast, tossing halfway through, until beans are crispy, 20 to 25 minutes.

Tips for getting them extra crispy

• Dry the beans thoroughly on paper towels before roasting
• Avoid overcrowding the pan
• Toss halfway through for even crisping

While they’re an easy upgrade for salads, roasted beans are surprisingly versatile:

• Sprinkle over soups instead of crackers
• Add to grain bowls for extra texture
• Toss with roasted vegetables as a finishing touch
• Use as a crispy topping for pasta
• Add to wraps or tacos for a bit of crunch
• Or enjoy them on their own as a snack

Other crunchy swaps to try

If you like the idea of switching things up, there are plenty of similar options:

• Roasted chickpeas
• Crispy lentils
• Crispy black beans

For smaller beans, reduce the total roasting time. For days when you don’t have time to make them yourself, there are also store-bought options available—just be sure to check the ingredient list.

Salad with Crispy Butter Bean Topping

So, should you make the switch?

Croutons aren’t going anywhere—and they don’t have to. But if you’re looking to add a little more texture and staying power to your salads, roasted beans are an easy, flexible alternative worth keeping in rotation.