Black Beans, Baby!

There are so many things to do with black beans, and they're good for you, too! They are low in fat, high in protein and cholesterol free. These quick and easy recipes are taken from a book I love, "Fast Weeknight Favorites" by Good Housekeeping. 

All of these recipes take less than half an hour. 
And for all recipes, first drain and rinse black beans. 

1) Black Bean Dip:

 In a food processor or blender, puree

-1 can of beans

-1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

-1 teaspoon freshly grated lime peel

-2 teaspoons chipotle pepper sauce

Transfer mixture to small bowl and stir-in

-1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves

-2 plum tomatoes, seeded and chopped

(Great with carrot sticks or tortilla chips)

2) Black Bean Salad:

In medium bowl, combine

-1 can beans

-1 red bell pepper, chopped

-1 can whole-kernel corn, drained 

-1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

-2 tbsp. ranch dressing

(Great served with chicken or fish)

3)Black Bean Saute:

In a non-stick skillet, brown

-1 small onion, chopped in

- 2 tbsp.'s olive oil

Stir-in 1 clove of garlic, crushed with a garlic press, and cook 1 minute.

Stir 1 can of beans and heat through and through. 

Remove from heat and add 1-2 tbsp. chopped pickled jalapeno chiles.

(Great side dish for pork chops).

4)Black Bean Soup

In a saucepan, cook for three minutes over medium heat:

-1 cup fresh salsa

-1 pinch of allspice

Stir-in 2 cans black beans, and 3 cups low sodium chicken broth.

Heat to boiling over high heat.

Reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes.

Use potato masher to coarsely mash beans.

Cheers, foodies!