Creole Black-Eyed Peas

As we have done many times before, we started out this new year with Black-Eyed peas. I strayed from the traditional ham hock in favor of something a little bit different (and healthier). The result was fantastic and I'm excited to share it with you.

Veggie Veggie Dip

I know this looks like guacamole, but it's not. It's beans! That's right, I said beans. I'm pretty excited about this super simple edamame bean dip. It's simple and would make an easy throw together item for a potluck or work function.

Crowd Pleasing Chili (Slow Cooker, or not)

For some reason I always associate the Super Bowl with a bunch of junk food and a pot of chili. Since we're all quite capable of finding our own junk food, and I'm anxious to try more things in the slow cooker, I thought I'd try a simple chili. This is mild enough for everyone yet full of flavor, I'll go ahead and call it a home run.

White Bean Salad

Mmm.. beans.  I love beans, but I sometimes don't think to incorporate them into my meals like I should.  This is a simple marinated white bean salad.  When I say simple it's pretty much the understatement of the day, it practically makes itself. This salad is a summer standard, you've probably met before at a barbecue.  The beans are great as a stand alone side dish, but I love them even more on top of a green salad.  I wish there were leftovers right now....