Tasty Tuesday

So, my friend Melissa wanted to try something this year, Tasty Tuesday, as a way to share recipes that we are trying, family favorites, and our old stand-bys. I love the idea - I'm always looking for new recipes (we do Meat-Free Monday, so I'm definately looking for great vegetarian recipes) and I love to cook, so, I'm jumping on the band-wagon and sharing a recipe every week as well.

Red Bean and Quinoa Chili

Recipe from Feeding the Whole Family by Cynthia Lair. (my new favorite cookbook!!!)

This is a one-dish meal you can make in 45 minutes. Try serving it to guests – they’ll love it!

Ingredients
2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 tsp sea salt
1 large green pepper, chopped
2 tsp cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
1/8 tsp cinnamon
1/8 tsp cayenne
2/3 cup quinoa, rinsed in warm water and drained
1 cup fresh or frozen corn
1 cup tomato sauce or canned tomatoes
1 cup water
1 15oz can kidney beans, drained

Garnish ingredients (optional)
Chopped cilantro
Low fat or non fat sour cream

Preparation

• Heat oil in skillet on medium heat.
• Add onion, salt, garlic, pepper and spices, saute for 5-10 minutes.
• Add rinsed quinoa and stir in.
• Add corn, tomato sauce or canned tomatoes and water to onion/quinoa mixture. Simmer together for 20 minutes.
• Add beans to other ingredients, simmer another 10 minutes.
• Top with cilantro and/or sour cream, if desired.

This is a great meat-free chili and Duffy didn't even miss the meat. We topped with avocado's and cheese as well.