Black Bean Brownies

These brownies are not only super healthy, but they taste amazing!!!

Black Bean Brownies

(gluten-free)

1 1/2 cups black beans (1 15-oz can, drained and rinsed very well)

2 tbsp cocoa powder- dutch or regular

1/2 cup quick oats

1/4 tsp salt

1/3 cup pure maple syrup or agave

2 nunaturals stevia packs or 2 tbsp sugar

1/4 cup coconut or vegetable oil

2 tsp pure vanilla extract

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/2 cup to 2/3 cup chocolate chips (Not optional. Omit at your own risk.)

optional: more chips, for presentation

Black Bean Brownies Recipe: Preheat oven to 350 F. Combine all ingredients except chips in a good food processor, and blend until completely smooth. Really blend well. (A blender can work if you absolutely must, but the texture—and even the taste—will be much better in a food processor.) Stir in the chips, then pour into a greased 8×8 pan. Optional: sprinkle extra chocolate chips over the top. Cook the black bean brownies 15-18 minutes, then let cool at least 10 minutes before trying to cut. Makes 9-12 brownies.

Edamame Salad

5 tablespoons red wine vinegar

3 tablespoons olive oil

1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro

2 limes, juiced

1 teaspoon white sugar

3/4 teaspoon salt

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 (1 pound) package frozen shelled edamame (green soybeans)

3 cups frozen corn kernels

1 pint cherry tomatoes, quartered (or diced romas)

4 green onions, thinly sliced

1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained

In a large serving bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, cilantro, lime juice, sugar, salt and garlic. Set aside.

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the soybeans and boil for 3 minutes. Add corn to the boiling water and continue cooking for 1 more minute. Drain very well, and pour into the bowl with the dressing. Gently mix in the tomatoes, green onions and black beans. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to chill and blend the flavors. 8 servings. Great as leftovers, too!

Photo courtesy allrecipes.com