Gatherings

It’s August in Ontario so it’s just all about Ontario sweet corn. This always makes me crave Mexican street corn but I also want something a bit lighter and healthier without scarifying the taste. Instead of using crema, sour cream or cream cheese, I chose white beans as the base. We get the creaminess, lots of protein, lose the fat but pump up the flavours. I use the chili lime Tajin but regular Tajin is also delicious.

Here is a lovely take on a Mexican favourite, slightly deconstructed. Lovely sauteed red kidney beans meet amazing roasted sweet potato, bathed in aromatic spices of cumin, turmeric, paprika and so much more. The mixture lays on a freshly dressed romaine with evo oil and lime juice and comes together with the addition of fresh ripe cherry tomatoes and Kalamata together with a bit of spice from tomato salsa, and sriracha mayo. You cannot have a taco of any kind without some shredded cheese and we put an Italian spin using slightly aged Asiago. Absolutely refreshing, healthy, and so delicious. So worth a try! Make it for taco Tuesday!

Here is a great vegetarian/vegan burger version that packs flavor and texture all in one patty, from the crispy surface to that rich velvety interior. Nice zesty notes from the roasted red peppers, and loads of freshness coming from the lettuce and mango black bean salsa. Looking for a lighter, healthy alternative? This is your best bet! Absolutely scrumptious!

This recipe is a delicious combination of creamy white beans sauteed spinach, garlic, onions and chili flakes piled onto your favourite toast and topped with provolone cheese. This recipe comes together in about 20 minutes and is hearty and comforting.

Enjoy the bold flavors of these Jerk Salmon Bites, perfectly spiced and full of Caribbean flair. Paired with a refreshing Bean Pineapple Salsa, the combination of tender salmon, black beans, sweet pineapple, and zesty lime creates a delightful burst of tropical goodness in every bite.

The perfect combination of savoury sausage, hearty beans, and aromatic spices encased in a buttery, flaky puff pastry. These sausage and bean rolls are a mouthwatering treat that will pass as a sophisticated appetizer at a party or an afternoon snack for your kids to dunk in ketchup!

Loaded black bean nachos are such a crowd-pleaser! They are easy to make and great to put out for a game night or Superbowl party. You just layer all the ingredients in a sheet pan, bake and enjoy. Customize the toppings to your liking. These nachos are vegetarian and are high in fibre and low in saturated fat.

When the craving for nachos strikes, this loaded version with black beans, corn and chorizo is easy to make and super satisfying. This is a terrific combination of flavours and textures, with the black beans giving a boost of extra protein and fibre. Have bowls of favourite toppings on the table so everyone can make them their own.

Hearty white bean, chicken and tomatillo chili–or is it a stew? Made with canned white kidney beans, chicken breast, tomatillos, salsa verde and corn this satisfying dish is perfect for colder days! Stir in some corn and kale at the end for extra brightness.