Bean Cannellini Pole

This heirloom bean is an Italian beauty with soft, creamy skin. It knows its way around a pole (hey, we’re still talking about gardening here), so make sure to support the vine while it grows to encourage production.

Fresh or dried, these beans are an excellent source of protein, dietary fibre and complex carbohydrates. Like that one aunt of yours, they’re slightly nutty – but unlike her they make a tasty minestrone or paste e fagioli. Make sure you rinse them well before cooking, and soak dry beans overnight before preparation.