Black Bean Dip

The pinto bean used to be considered the king for bean dips, but black beans have been gaining popularity lately. Once you taste our Black Bean Dip, you'll see why!

Makes: abaout 4 cups dip

Cooking Time: 15 min

Ingredients

• 2 (16-ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained, divided
• 1 (8-ounce) jar picante sauce, divided
• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
• 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium-sized red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon dried cilantro
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (2 ounces) shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1 medium-sized tomato, chopped

Instructions

1. In a blender or a food processor, combine 1 can of beans and 1/4 cup picante sauce; blend or process until smooth.
    
2. In a large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium heat and saute onion, pepper, and garlic 5 to 7 minutes, or until onion is tender. Add pureed bean mixture, the cumin, cilantro, salt, and remaining whole beans and picante sauce; mix well. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low and simmer 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
    
3. Pour dip into a shallow serving dish and top with cheese and tomato.
    

Note

Serve Black Bean Dip with your favorite low-fat tortilla chips for a really healthy snack or party food.