European Soldier beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) have a mild flavor and firm texture. They are also known as red eyes due to the splashes of color surrounding the hilum or eye of the bean which look like the silhouette of a soldier. Grown in the cooler climates of the northern United States, this bean reaches about ¾ in length. The European Soldier beans can replace almost any white bean in recipes. Use in soups, salads and casseroles, mix with diced ham and vinaigrette, serve over lettuce as a refreshing cold summer salad.