Taco Toss-up

As a little girl, on my birthday my mom would let me choose whatever I wanted for dinner. Usually it was a toss-up between tacos and roast beef. I used to love trying to stuff my tacos as full as I could without breaking the shell. I can still remember the c-r-u-n-c-h as I would bite into those tasty La Tiara shells. It has been a LONG time since I've had tacos that way, but just thinking about it brings back some good memories.

Tonight's Taco Salad recipe was inspired by tacos from my childhood. My husband was so impressed by the flavor that he actually questioned if it was really Daniel Fast approved!

P.S. And, no, it's not my birthday today. :)

Taco Salad

1 (14.5-oz) can corn kernels, drained

1 (15.5-oz) can pinto beans, undrained

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 cup diced onion

1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed & drained

1/2 tablespoon Taco Seasoning

2 cups torn romaine or iceberg lettuce

Garnishes: Avocado slices, chopped green onions, sliced olives, and/or diced tomatoes

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F. Spread corn kernels out in one layer on a lightly oiled 11 x 17-inch baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until corn is browned and slightly crunchy.

While corn is roasting, place pinto beans in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic powder and salt. Cook 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Using a fork or potato masher, mash beans until they are the consistency of refried beans. Lower heat, and continue to cook until some of the liquid has evaporated and beans have thickened, about 10 minutes more. Stir frequently to avoid scalding beans on the bottom of the pan.

Heat olive oil over medium heat, and add onions. Cook until onions are soft and translucent. Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning. Stir well to coat. Reduce heat to low, and keep warm until pinto beans are done.

To serve, place about 1/2 cup lettuce on each plate, and top with 1/4 cup pinto beans and a heaping 1/2 cup of black bean and corn mixture. Add desired toppings to salad.

Yield: 4 servings (serving size: about 1 1/2 cups)