Protein & Fiber Packed Black Bean Bowl

I like to keep a variety of canned beans in my pantry.

Beans are also easy on your wallet and may help you reduce your waistline too. They are a low calorie food that is high in protein and fiber which make beans a great choice for those looking to lose weight. Note: if you're concerned with salt intake, look for no salt added beans.

Easy to prep: Canned beans can be used right out of the can, just give them a rise first.

If you want them as a hot side, dump your can into a sauce pan and bring to a simmer over a medium-low heat. Too much work? Skip the stove and toss them in a microwave safe dish until warm.

Spice them to your liking, I like to add some taco seasoning or other dry rub mixed in while simmering on the stove.

Serve as a side dish, top a salad, stuff a burrito, bulk up a chili, top with a fried egg or...

(2 main dish/4 side-dish servings)

• ⅓ cup quinoa

• 1 cup water

• 1 tsp olive oil

• 1 lime, juiced

• ½ tsp chili powder

• 1 Tbsp finely chopped fresh cilantro

• 1 15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 2 cups diced plum tomatoes, seeds removed

• 1 cup diced bell peppers

• 1 Tbsp minced fresh green chile

• salt and ground black pepper to taste

Place the quinoa in a strainer and rinse under cool running water. Let drain well.

Bring the water to boil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the quinoa, cover, and reduce the heat to low and allow to simmer until all the water is absorbed, about 10-12 minutes.

Remove from heat and allow to cool for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the oil, lime juice, chili powder, and cilantro. Mix together well and stir in the beans, tomatoes, peppers, and chiles. Add the quinoa and combine thoroughly and add salt and pepper to taste

Place in the refrigerator to chill until it’s time to eat. DELICIOUS!