Jacked-Up Pinto Beans

This is a family favorite and one of those dishes you can easily adjust depending on who's coming to dinner.  My daughter Caroline is a super-taster (very sensitive to spicy foods)  and this version is a bit spicy, so we use mild RO*TEL, omit the pepper and top it with Monterey jack cheese for her.  For bacon lovers, you can add bacon by omitting the canola oil and frying up 2 slices of bacon to start.  The onions will then be added and you can follow the recipe from there.  It does have mexican flavors in it so we often make it with grilled chicken or beef and tortillas. I think it is hearty enough to be the main course, but works great as a side dish too. It is one of those dishes you can make with items in your pantry.  It takes about 5 minutes to prep and then can simmer on the stove. The longer you simmer it, the softer the beans get. And as long as you don't go crazy with the cheese, it is a low calorie option.

Jacked-Up Pinto Beans

1 tablespoon canola oil

1 medium onion, chopped

1/2 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

2- 16oz cans pinto beans, undrained

1-10oz can Original Ro*tel, undrained

2 tablespoons chopped cilantro, plus extra for garnish

3 oz shredded Pepper Jack cheese for garnish

In medium saucepan, heat oil over medium heat.  Add onions and cook until softened. Approximately 5 minutes.  

Add cumin, garlic, salt and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds.

Add beans, Ro*tel and cilantro.  Stir to mix.

Simmer on medium, uncovered for 15-20 minutes.

Garnish servings with pepper jack cheese and cilantro.

Peanut Butter & Fruit Waffle

What to eat for breakfast had been an on going dilemma until I discovered the Peanut Butter & Fruit Waffle! This is my version of the Abs Diet Wafflewich.   It is easy and delicious and keeps me full until lunch.  I use Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Low Fat waffles. At only70 calories it's a smart choice.  I use whatever fresh fruit is available seasonally and have used defrosted frozen fruit when I couldn't find fresh options.  Today I used blueberries, grapes, cherries and strawberries. This is a healthy, satisfying way to start my day.

Peanut Butter & Fruit Waffle

1waffle 

1-2 tbs peanut butter

1 tsp ground flax seeds

sliced fresh fruit 

Toast waffle.  Spread with peanut butter.  Sprinkle with flax seeds and top with your favorite fresh fruit.

Tri-ing Something for the First Time

I competed in my first triathlon on Mother's Day.  It was an idea that had interested me for a couple of years, but I never followed through on it until this past March when I actually clicked the "register" button and made the financial commitment.  I knew if I spent the money, I would make it happen.  I was nervous about the whole idea of it because of the many unknowns.  I have participated in organized running races, but couldn't imagine the specifics of the swimming and biking portions, let alone all 3 in one race and one outfit.  I am a detail oriented person so this missing information gave me some worries.  My excitement to finish a triathlon, kept me motivated and I am so GLAD I did it!!  My feeling of accomplishment was even stronger because I did it despite my fears.


I have some fears about starting a blog too, but I am jumping in with both feet and giving it my best shot.  If I don't try....I'll never know if I can.  Plus, I have a feeling I'll learn some things along the way.