Spring Comfort Food?

Ahhhh....Spring is here! The days are longer, the sun is brighter, the flip-flops have come out of the closet, and only a few weeks until we start getting CSA boxes!
So, in honor of Spring's arrival, I thought I would make my favorite light and healthy (yet comforting) dish: Lime-Cilantro Rice with Savory Black Beans and Roasted Corn. A long name for such an easy meal-in-one dish.

Start by cooking the rice (I love to use Basmati). While that's going, heat a small skillet over med-high heat, add a teaspoon or so of olive oil and throw in some chopped red onion, fresh or frozen corn, some red pepper flakes, salt and pepper. Let this cook (without stirring too much) until it smells smoky but is not burning. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan or saute pan, add one can of black beans, a bay leaf, 1 teaspoon cumin, a splash of liquid aminos, a dash of hot sauce and two crushed garlic cloves. Bring to a simmer and let cook until the liquid is reduced, about 12-15 minutes. When the rice is done, stir in some fresh lime juice, a pinch of salt and chopped fresh cilantro.

Spoon the beans on the bed of rice, followed by the corn and topped off with a sprig of cilantro and a lime wedge. Mmmm...It's so good!!