We love these boldly flavored beans as a side dish but they’d also work as a quick appetizer with tortilla chips on the side.

Makes 6 servings, generous 1/2 cup each

ACTIVE TIME: 15 minutes

TOTAL TIME: 15 minutes

EASE OF PREPARATION: Easy

1 16-ounce can fat-free refried beans, preferably spicy
1 15-ounce can no-salt-added pinto beans, rinsed
1/2 cup prepared salsa
2/3 cup grated sharp Cheddar cheese, divided
4 scallions, sliced

1. Position rack in upper third of oven; preheat broiler.
2. Combine refried beans, pinto beans, salsa and 1/3 cup cheese in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until the mixture is hot and the cheese is melted, 6 to 8 minutes.
3. Spoon the bean mixture into a 2-quart baking dish and sprinkle with the remaining 1/3 cup cheese and scallions. Broil until the cheese is lightly browned, about 2 minutes.

NUTRITION INFORMATION: Per serving: 169 calories; 5 g fat (2 g sat, 0 g mono); 13 mg cholesterol; 22 g carbohydrate; 10 g protein; 7 g fiber; 519 mg sodium; 64 mg potassium.

Nutrition bonus: Calcium (15% daily value).


1 1/2 Carbohydrate Servings

Exchanges: 1 1/2 starch, 1 lean meat