Zesty Corn and Black Beans

Ingredients:

• 2 can black beans
• 1 small can of corn or 1 cup frozen corn
  
• 1/4 cup of loosely packed fresh chopped cilantro
  
• 1 1/2 Tbs EVOO
• 1/2 onion finely chopped
• 2 tsp chopped garlic
• 1 tsp chili powder
  
• 1 packet of Sazon Con Cilantro and Achiote

Directions:

1. heat EVOO in a medium sauce pan on medium high heat
2. sautee onions, garlic, corn and Sazon in pan
3. when onions are translucent mix in beans and cilantro and reduce heat to medium low
4. cook for 7-10 minutes
5. remove from heat and serve while still hot
   

Commentary:
I actually acquired this recipe from my old roommate a few years ago. This dish makes an excellent side dish to any Latin dish and a great filling for Mexican dishes. You could also make this a dip for chips and veggies by pureeing or mashing the beans prior to cooking. For all of you cilantro lovers you should try doubling the amount for a bolder taste. I hope you enjoy!

Quick and Easy Guacamole

Ingredients:

• 3 avocados
  
• 2 Tbs lime juice
• 1 tsp garlic salt
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
• 3-4 Tbs chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 plum tomatoes finely chopped
  
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1 jalapeno pepper finely chipped*

Directions:

• mash together the avocados, lime juice, garlic salt, and jalapeno pepper in a medium bowl
• mix in red onion, cilantro, tomatoes, and garlic
• can be served immediately, but for uniform flavor cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for an hour or more

*when chopping jalapeno peppers make sure to limit contact with hands. The oils from the pepper are not just spicy to the tongue, it will cause a burning sensation in eyes and other areas of the body where the skin is sensitive. I suggest wearing a latex glove on the hand handling the pepper to avoid discomfort.

Commentary:
My first go at guacamole was not one I would be proud of. I bought 4 hard-as-rock avocados and thought a quick go in the blender would make it soft and creamy....not! Make sure your avocados are ripe before attempting to make guacamole. For you lazy folks (like me) you can add all your ingredients to a food processor (except for the tomatoes) to avoid chopping. I hope you all enjoy!