Beans, beans, they're good for the heart...

Nick is absolutely crazy about black beans...well, beans in general, so he's always encouraging me to find recipes that include as many beans as possible. I did a little search on the internet and found a few recipes to try out. This particular one is very tasty and has tons of protein, not to mention it has the right stuff to help ward off colon cancer. So if you're looking for ways to add protein to your diet, try this seven layer tortilla pie. All you need to get started:
2 (15 ounce) cans pinto beans, drained & rinsed
1 cup salsa, divided
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 T. chopped fresh cilantro
1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed & drained
1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
7 (8 inch) flour tortillas
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup salsa
1/2 cup sour cream
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
- In a large bowl, mash pinto beans and stir in 3/4 cup of salsa and the garlic.
- In a separate bowl, mix together 1/4 cup salsa, cilantro, black beans and tomatoes.
- Place one tortilla in a pie plate. Spread 3/4 cup pinto bean mixture over tortilla to within 1/2 inch of edge. Top with 1/4 cup cheese, and cover with another tortilla.
- Spread with 2/3 cup black bean mixture and top with 1/4 cup cheese. Repeat layering twice.
- Cover with remaining tortilla and spread with remaining pinto bean mixture & cheese.
- Cover with foil, and bake in preheated oven for about 40 minutes. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa & sour cream.

Even though this dish has a lot going for it, beans aren't called the musical fruit for nothing. Before digging in, be sure to down some Beano to prevent the post-dinner symphony.