Not too spicy, and just a little bit sweet, these Cuban black beans make a great side dish or main meal when served over cilantro lime quinoa or rice.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Total Cook Time: 2.5 hours

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients (Cuban Black Beans)

• 1 1/2 lb dried black beans
• 1 Organic Bay Leaf
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 small green bell pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• 6 cloves of garlic, peeled and finely chopped
• 1 tbsp organic Cuban spice blend
• 4 tbsp olive oil

Directions (Cuban Black Beans)

1. Sort through beans, discard any small stones, then rinse under cold water.
2. Place beans, bay leaf and 1 tbsp of olive oil into a large pot and cover with about 4” of water.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
4. Add water as needed to keep beans covered, and cook until beans are tender, about 2 hours.
5. Heat remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, onion, green peppers and Cuban seasoning blend. Saute until peppers are soft. Add mixture to beans, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes. Remove bay leaf before serving and serve with cilantro lime quinoa.

Ingredients (Cilantro Lime Quinoa)

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro
• salt, to taste

Directions (Cilantro Lime Quinoa)

1. In a large pot, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth and quinoa to a boil.
2. Reduce heat, cover and simmer until quinoa is tender, about 15 minutes.
3. Transfer quinoa into a medium bowl and fluff with a fork.
4. Stir in garlic, lime juice and cilantro. Season with salt, to taste.