For the first - a savory, spicy little dish packed with protein, dice up a small yellow onion, 2 little peppers (seeds removed!) chipotle, jalapeño...your should choice based on the spice-level you prefer, and sautée that all together until the onions start to turn golden.Toss in a small, diced, seeded tomato, 2 cans of organic black beans (drained) and 1/4 of vegetable stock.
Cool until warm throughout, season to taste with kosher salt, and transfer to a baking dish. Top with shredded vegan cheese, and let that bake at 350 until the cheese is good and melted. Serve immediately!
Next, fill a big, round bowl with shredded romaine. Rather than tossing in your favorite ingredients, place them on top in a colorful pinwheel like my friend, Beth, did. Fresh corn kernels, diced red pepper, crisp green peas, diced cucumber - while this also has garbanzo beans, carrots and tortilla strips, you could do black olives, sundried tomatoes, celery, hearts of palm...anything you choose! Just leave the dressing on the side, or use the flavorful bean dish to serve as the dressing for you. Of course, you can always add a margarita and some guacamole to round out a fuller meal. Enjoy!
