They may not be the most exciting of foods, but tinned pulses are among the great workhorses of healthy, low-cost family meals and there should always be room for them in your pantry. Full of fibre, protein and a number of essential minerals, they’re incredibly versatile, fast to prepare and several varieties can usually be found at the supermarket for under $2 a tin (if you’re concerned about sodium, choose a “no added salt” option and/or give your beans or chickpeas a really good drain and rinse with clean water).

Every one of this week’s recipes is based on a tin or two of pulses, but you definitely won’t feel you’re eating the same thing over and over. They’re budget-conscious, with lots of store cupboard staples and seasonal veg, easy, and fast, and show just how much a seemingly unexciting little tin can do.

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Chicken with artichoke, beans and chilli

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One pan and 20 minutes is all you need for this comforting dinner.

Nicola Galloway’s squash and black bean enchiladas recipe

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Healthy comfort food does exist.

Chorizo and chickpea stew

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Chorizo sausages are so tasty it’s possible to make a few go a long way, especially in a stew like this.

Chickpea fritters with miso, ginger and herbs

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Got chickpeas? Get cooking.

Kumara with pinto beans and spinach

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When it comes to eating simple, there is nothing better than a big baked kumara.