You have eclectic taste in food JT. Regarding nutritional value of legumes, there’s something in them that inhibits your body from absorbing key minerals. I prefer meat and sale prices here are pretty reasonable. But I love beans also. Not lentils. I don’t think lentils are considered beans but lentils and beans are legumes.
Have you ever made cassoulet? I just bought some brats and a cassoulet might be a good way to use them up as well as some of my canned beans. I know I could look it up but would certainly like to hear from anyone that has a proven recipe for one.
I have not made cassoulet, but have often been tempted to try the D’Artagnan kit:
https://www.dartagnan.com/cassoulet-recipe-kit/product/KCSLT001-1.html
But it makes a LOT, and I’m not sure beans freeze very well. Maybe for a party...