Looks like we’re in store for another cold front with snow this week along the East Coast. Rather than go raid the grocery store for milk and bread like, I thought I would make some healthy, comfort food…quick, easy, delicious and nutritious, of course. There are much more culinary ways of going about this including soaking your beans, but I don’t usually have that kind of time or foresight on my side. So, if you’re like me and need to work within time constraints, grab the following and give it a shot.

3 cans of black beans (15oz)
1 jar of your favorite tomato sauce, go organic
1 red bell pepper, go organic, it’s on the Dirty Dozen list
1 large yellow onion
4 cloves of garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon cayenne
avocado
cilantro

Heat olive oil on medium to medium high heat in a large pot for a minute or so then add garlic, onion, red bell pepper and heat for a few minutes or until translucent. Add spices and heat for another minute or so, should be smelling pretty good about now. Add beans and tomato sauce, heat until bubbling then reduce heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes or longer. Top with avocado and cilantro. Enjoy. Bundle up. Daydream of warmer days ahead.