Cowboy Caviar by Lynn Yamamoto

This is fresh, healthy and delicious. People love it, even kids. You can make it ahead, so it's great for a summer party. Serve it with scoop-shaped tortilla chips, or have it on the side as a relish. I add extra cilantro, because there can never be too much cilantro!

Curried Lentil Stew with rice by Nancy Miyasaki

This curried lentil stew is an awesome winter dish. It will warm you and sooth you with its soft texture and rich flavor. Vegetarians can leave out the bacon and ham. Those who relish Indian flavors can double the tumeric, cumin, ginger, and cloves.

Cajun Crowder Beans by Amos Miller

Also known as Crowder peas, these delicious little fellas can often be found in frozen form at the store. These are fresh picked right here in Michigan and, like fava beans and so many other seasonal treats, we rush them to the table. Crowders are really a 'Southern' treat and I first enjoyed them when visiting relatives in West…

Alton Brown Lentil Soup by John Spottiswood

I adapted this recipe from one by Alton Brown. I added spinach, potatoes, and scallions and removed grains of paradise. Our whole family really enjoyed this recipe. I made it alongside an Indian curried lentil soup recipe, and while both were good, this was the hands down winner. If you're looking for a tasty, hearty, and healthy…

Pork & Chickpea Stew by John Spottiswood

Super easy to make. Toss all ingredients in the pot (or slow cooker) and forget about it until dinner time. Healthy...and is good vegetarian with vegetable broth and no pork.

Homemade Refried Beans by John Spottiswood

I'm ashamed to say that though I LOVE refried beans, this is the first time I've ever made them myself. It's just so easy to buy them in a can, or at a mexican restaurant, that I haven't bothered. But this recipe is simple and it is definitely worth the effort in my mind. I figure my kids are the true test, since they aren't that…

Pork and Hominy Chili by Nancy Miyasaki

Burrito Pie by Carolinaheartstrings

This month we are trying out our favorite “international” recipes. The Husband and I love Mexican food. I used to make a variation of this recipe all the time when we were first married. I used refried beans then and we now prefer black beans and just like my enchilada casserole recipe (check it out if you want a great enchilada…

My Favorite Everyday Chili by Denise Sherin

There's nothing like a hearty warm bowl of chili. My son loves chili and loves scooping it with tortilla chips. I know some people serve chili over rice or pasta but I am a chili purist. Just chili in the bowl and a nice piece of italian bread. Serve it how you like and top it with what ever you like.. shredded cheddar, sour cream…

Easy Tex-Mex Refried Bean Dip by myra byanka

Inexpensive, easy prep recipe that guests will love. I sometimes use this recipe to make quesadillas, too.

Mexican Black Bean and Corn Salad by Denise Sherin

This is a great side dish for picnics and outdoor parties since there is no mayo in it. The cilantro, fresh garlic and lime juice really bring a crisp freshness to this salad/ salsa. It's great on it's own but its also wonderful with fish tacos or as a salsa with corn chips... great over eggs or in an omelet. Cook time refers to…

Ellie's Black Bean & Chipotle Dip by Amos Miller

Thanks to Ellie Kreiger for this healthy and zippy dip - just the thing on a day when you're cooped up, watching movies or a sporting event. It comes together quickly and is ready to enjoy with your favorite chips. I like it as a side with Chicken Enchiladas Suizas.

Crock pot lentil soup by Carolinaheartstrings

I love lentil soup and I must not be alone in that love because when I used to buy canned soup I loved a particular brand’s lentil soup and it was always missing from the shelf. I cannot believe it took me so long to make this because it was so easy and so delicious. Even The Husband liked it and I never thought I would get him to…

Slow Cooker Baked Beans by Eileen Kelly

Slow Cooker Baked Beans is a super easy recipe to prepare in the slow cooker. Made with canned beans and a blend of ketchup, molasses and spices! Using the canned beans allows this dish to be ready in 2 hours. Perfect side dish for any BBQ