Skip To Main Content

Organic Black Beans

Unplug, Relax & Unwind: Tips for Mindful Eating

A wholesome meal enjoyed in the company of loved ones can nourish our soul and sustain our spirits long after we digest the needed nutrients. In today’s fast-paced world, we often think of food as a means to an end: food = calories = energy needed to power through the day. To reconnect with the wholly satiating power of food, we invite you to practice mindful eating. Here are a few tips and recipes that will show you how.

1)     Digital Detox: Designate mealtime a device-free zone. By setting aside your technological distractions, you will focus your attention on the food you are putting in your mouth and fully appreciate the various tastes and textures at play. This Tortilla Chip Macaroni & Bean Soup—fortified with Libby’s® Organic Black Beans, fired up with chili powder and topped with crunchy tortilla chips—is a complex collection of flavors that deserves your undivided devotion.

 

2)     Bite by Bite: Instead of chowing at lightning pace, set down your fork after each bite and completely chew everything before going back for more. This will allow you to truly savor every bite and better recognize when you are full. In the spirit of taking things slow, try out this Slow Cooker Herbed Chicken and Veggies, a tender and melodic medley of bite-size chicken, Libby’s® Sliced Carrots, Sweet Peas and more. 

 

3)     Meaningful Chatter: The best complement to any meal is quality conversation. This means looking your dining mates in the eye, asking thoughtful questions and sharing important moments from your day. Get the conversation going with this El Paso Polenta Pie, a stick-to-your-ribs combo of polenta, Libby’s® Whole Kernel Sweet Corn, Organic Black Beans and a decadent three-cheese blend.  

 

 

 

Freshened Up Old-Fashioned Eats

This Sunday is Grandparents Day, a dedicated moment to recognize your most special loved ones. Convey your affection by preparing a home-cooked meal with love. In tribute to grandparents—and in celebration of both the past and the present—we compiled the following timeless recipes made anew with a modern twist.  

 

 

A Cheesy Classic

Nothing incites mouth-watering nostalgia quite like a classic casserole. But we often think of the dish as a dinner-only entrée. This Cheesy Brunch Casserole proves that’s just not so. Made with Libby’s® Mixed Vegetables, lean ham and your favorite French bread, it’s a savory delight, no matter what time you chow it.

Beyond Basic Mac

True, there’s nothing wrong with your standard Mac & Cheese, but have just one taste of this Kicked Up Mac & Cheese and you’ll never look back. Libby’s® Sweet Peas and Libby’s® Whole Kernel Sweet Corn lend texture and sweetness, panko bread crumbs provide a crunchy topper and diced pimentos tie it all together with a touch of heat.

Cuisine Collision

  

A classic Italian dish lends inspiration from south of the border in this hearty, finger-licking Mexican Lasagna. Tortillas stand in for pasta noodles and Libby’s® Organic Black Beans, chili beans, salsa, olives and hamburger unite for a flavorful filling.  

Chili Chow Down

Winter is the perfect time for a hot and hearty meal — and what could be better than chili? Not all chili is created equal; there are many different types to enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or a big football game gathering, here are a few recipes to test.

Beef and Bean Chili 

 Image via FoodNetwork.com

This is the classic take on chili — a mixture of beef and beans with a secret ingredient that’s sure to add a kick. Use Libby’s® Organic Pinto Beans for this dish that is sure to be a winner with the whole family. 

Winter White Chili 

A much lighter version, this dish substitutes the traditional beef with lean chicken. A variety of vegetables add a tasty and unique flavor to this meal. For this one, you’ll need Libby’s® Whole Kernel Sweet Corn and Libby’s® Organic Garbanzo Beans.

Black Bean Salsa Chili

  

Despite its name, turkey and bacon are actually the main stars in this chili dish, but that doesn’t mean the beans aren’t important! Use Libby’s® Black Beans to add a rich and delicious flavor to this meal. 

What are your favorite ingredients to put in chili? Sound off on our Facebook page!

Make School Lunches Healthy and Fun for Your Kids

While this can sometimes be difficult with the temptation of pizza and hot dogs doled out in the school cafeteria, it is important to make healthy lunches a priority. October 13-17 is National School Lunch Week, dedicated to improving the quality of school lunches. In recent years, schools have made serious efforts to reduce trans fats and sodium levels, and introduce more lean protein, fruit and vegetables into lunch menus.

 

Take charge of your child’s nutrition – make a homemade lunch and introduce healthy eating habits from a young age. Here are some healthy and fun lunch options that revamp the typical school lunches.

 

Confetti Tuna Rice Salad

 

When food is visually appealing, kids get more excited to eat it. Instead of the quintessential tuna salad sandwich, pack a colorful (and healthy!) alternative like our Confetti Tuna Rice Salad. Packed with Libby’s® Sweet Peas, Organic Black Beans and Whole Kernel Sweet Corn, this flavorful entrée will ensure your kids are eating a wholesome and filling lunch.

 

Lunch Box Pasta Salad

 

Put an Italian spin on lunch with this classic recipe, minus the mayonnaise. Use Libby’s® Mixed Vegetables and Whole Kernel Sweet Corn. The whole wheat pasta also adds a healthier alternative to your kids’ lunch.

 

Southwestern Black Bean Salad

 

Image via Snack the Planet

Most healthy cafeteria lunches feature salads made with iceberg lettuce, which has little nutritional value. This dish takes a healthy twist on that old standby. Use Libby’s® Organic Black Beans and Whole Kernel Sweet Corn to add some fiber to the dish. Romaine lettuce serves as the base for this nutritious side salad.

 

What changes would you make to your child’s school lunch? Share your thoughts and revamped recipes on our Facebook page