The Wisdom of the Gaucho

Black beans are versatile, full of fiber and antioxidants and easy to have on hand if you purchase canned black beans . This is a great recipe for an easy weeknight meal and is endlessly customizable according to your tastes and preferences. A base of black beans and brown rice is a powerful meal. Black Bean and Rice Bowl - Ingredients: 1 can of black beans , drained and rinsed 1 cup cooked brown rice 1 red bell pepper, diced 1/2 red onion, diced 1 avocado, diced 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons lemon juice Salt and pepper to taste Instructions: In a large bowl, combine the black beans, cooked brown rice, red bell pepper, red onion, and diced avocado. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss to combine. Serve the black bean and rice bowl warm.  

We're always on the lookout for a quick and tasty weeknight recipes. This recipe involves minimal cooking and can most likely be prepared with items already in your pantry, and can include any number of additions or adaptations based on your personal preference.   Black Bean Tacos - Ingredients: 1 can of black beans , drained and rinsed. Or if you have time, start with dry black beans . 1 tablespoon chili powder 1 teaspoon cumin 1/2 teaspoon paprika Salt and pepper to taste 8-10 gluten-free taco shells Toppings of your choice (lettuce, cheese, diced tomatoes, salsa, etc.) Instructions: In a medium saucepan, combine the black beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, until the beans are heated through and well-seasoned. Spoon the black bean mixture into the gluten-free taco shells. Add any desired toppings. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Due to circumstances beyond my control (a crazy family), I missed out on a lot of things in my childhood that others take for granted. Strangely enough, one of those things is Chex mix. I'd never had Chex mix until I was 30 and it was quite an enjoyable discovery. But living and cooking for a spouse with Celiac Disease put Chex Mix back into the forbidden recipe book, never to see the light of day. Once Chex started offering gluten free varieties of its cereals, everything changed. I got the family heirloom Chex mix recipe from my Mother In Law (we call her Mama Bear) and have made it as an occasional snack/treat for special occasions. This is by no means health food, it's to be eaten sparingly and as a treat, not an everyday food. Here's how to make gluten free Chex mix. Ingredients: 2/3 Cup Organic Peanut Butter 1/2 Cup Organic Butter 1 Cup Brown Sugar 1/2 Cup Honey 1/8 Cup Water 12 Cups Gluten Free Chex (any flavors) 3/4 Cup Slivered Almonds 1/2 C...