Grilled Pepper Fajitas with Aromatic Black Beans

Had two leftover bell peppers after making this pot of deliciousness so we decided to make fajitas.

One thing I've learned making vegan meals for non-vegans is that a handful of aromatics (garlic, onions and fresh herbs) really goes a long way. Much of what we "taste" is really about what we smell, so a sure-fire way to get people excited about eating whatever you're serving is to get some good kitchen smells going.

These would work just fine with a simpler guac (or even plain avocados) and black beans straight from the can, but it's really worth a few minutes of chopping to go the full Monty. Even if you're not trying to win-over non-vegans, do it anyway. It's delicious.

The third version of this herby guac (para bailar la Bamba) with some pimped up black beans add a substance and texture that turned what would otherwise have been "one of those lame veggie wraps" the Bear turns his nose up at into a hearty, flavorful dinner.

We also fired up some of these strawberry-lime bananas for dessert.

Fast. Filling. Fab-u-lous.

Aromatic Black Beans

14oz can of black beans
4-6 cilantro stems (or the whole sprig, it's up to you)
1 garlic clove, crushed or pressed
1/4 cup chopped onion
pinch finely minced red chille
pinch of salt

Combine everything in a saucepan and simmer 15-20 minutes on medium-low heat.
While that's going on, make the guac and set it aside while you grill the veggies.

Grilled Pepper Fajitas
makes 4-6, depending on serving size

1 each red and yellow bell pepper, sliced lengthwise
1/2 onion, sliced lengthwise (use the other half for the guac and beans)
3-way guacamole
aromatic black beans
4-6 whole wheat tortillas

Lightly oil a grill pan and lay the peppers and onions out in a single layer. Cook over medium heat, turning as needed, until they are done to the tenderness of your liking. If you don't have a grill pan, you can just saute them in a skillet.

Remove and set aside. Quickly warm the tortillas in the same pan, about a minute on each side.

Assemble the fajitas with guac, beans and veggies.

Enjoy!