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…

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.

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

Caramelized Onions and Pecan Green Beans by Tracy Rapp

Sweet and Nutty Green Beans that everyone loves!

Black Bean Soup by Carolinaheartstrings

We are soup lovers at my house and The Husband and I are big fans of black beans, so . . . . you can see where this is leading right? Yep, a big pot of hot satisfying black bean soup with your favorite salad, biscuit or corn bread concoction on the side and you have the perfect meal!

Vermont Baked Beans by Micheline

These are my favourite baked beans because they remain white when cooked and just sweet enough. I always double the recipe. Freezes well.