All aboard the black bean train! This is a great trending topic train I am totally down to ride. Not only is the black bean a great, inexpensive pantry staple, it is also healthy (high fiber, lowers cholesterol, protein rich, and I could go on…) and hearty. These little beauties will add the extra “oomph” to any meat or vegetarian dish.

I personally tend to always go the fiesta route with my black beans. I enjoy the Mexican flavors and all the additions you can add to make any black bean dish really stand out. Black beans can take on any flavor profile which is why I think they are such an amazing ingredient.

Whether they are a meal on their own, a flavorful side dish, or even a dessert…black beans are always a must in my casa and a super quick and easy fix for those hectic week night meals. Even my husband can help with these incredible dishes, wink wink!

One of my most favorite ways to eat the black bean, rolled up in a tortilla and smothered with cheese.  I’ll probably eat anything smothered in cheese.  As seen above, this dish is quick and easy and I love it because it is great for leftovers and freezer friendly. Per most of the recipes I make, everything is based on what I have on hand in my fridge and pantry. I love using black beans since they are a great “catch all” ingredient and pair so well with other ingredients and flavors. This simple dish was baked and on the table in a half hour.

Ingredients
6 tortillas
1 can black beans
1 can dices tomatoes and chilies
About 2 cups Leftover shredded chicken or rotisserie chicken
CHEESE

Instructions

While preheating the oven to 350 degrees…
Spray non stick cooking spray on your 8 x8 baking pan and set aside
Mix the black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken in a large bowl
Place a few spoonfuls in each of your tortillas and gently roll to form like an enchilada
Place ( I shove and smush to fit in) all 6 wraps in your prepared baking dish and top with shredded cheese
Bake at 350 for 30 mins or until heated through.
I love to broil for a couple mins at the end of baking to get bubbly and crispy cheese just before serving.

Top with your favorite taco essentials and ENJOY!

How we like to enjoy our black beans and suggested uses

Black bean nugget tacos with a corn salsa and cilantro

Served over a bed of rice with sauteed veggies, chimichurri, and homemade tostones
Filling for quesadillas or empanadas

In a southwest inspired soup with shredded chicken, rice, and crisp romaine lettuce
Baked stuffed peppers

Black bean burgers with air fryer plantain chips and guacamoleSmashed sweet potato and black bean tostadas with queso fresco and avocado salad

Ideas and suggested toppings

The beauty of the canned or dry black bean is the fact that the possibilities are endless. What are you in the mood for? Pizza? Pasta? Soup? Salad? Black beans are perfect for any occasion, any food craving, and can be prepared in a matter of mins.

We LOVE:

• Tacos
• Quesadillas, Enchiladas, Tostadas, or Empanadas
• Mexican Pizza
• Served over rice or as a side dish to chicken or fish
• Burrito bowls
• Burgers
• Nuggets
• Chili, soups, stews
• Pasta salad
• Stuffed peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes
• Smashed on bread if you are so over avocado toast
• Serve with eggs for breakfast or huevos rancheros
• Mix in with a dip or toss with a salad

Be CREATIVE, it is up to you!

Toppings you can use or add to any black bean dish:

• Rice, quinoa, orzo, pasta, etc…
• Grilled or sauteed veggies
• Avocado and tomatoes
• Corn
• Sour cream or crema
• Lime
• Cheese
• Cilantro or other fresh herbs
• Jalapenos, chilies, or other hot peppers
• Pairs well with cumin, paprika, garlic, oregano, and chili powder.
  

  Are you salivating yet? I think I will throw a can of black beans in the slow cooker with some chicken breast for dinner tonight. Serve it up over cilantro lime rice with a side arugula and avocado salad. Funny, I am craving black beans for some reason…

  
  xo Paige
  paigemontoyaluna@gmail.com