Pesto Pepper Tortellini

Yummy, yummy, yummy...that describes this new dish that I made last week! The best part about it, is that I see SO MANY variations to it. It was great the way I made it, but I can definitely see myself adding some ingredients next time.

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Pesto Pepper Tortellini

1 package (19 oz) frozen cheese tortellini

1/2 cup julienned sweet red pepper (I glanced too quickly at this recipe on the way to the grocery store and picked up a red bell pepper...it was great though!)

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup butter

2 cups heavy whipping cream

1/4 cup ground walnuts

2 tablespoons minced fresh basil or 2 teaspoons dried basil (I used fresh)

1 tablespoon chopped green onion or chives

Prepare tortellini according to package directions.

Meanwhile, saute red pepper and garlic in butter until pepper is crisp-tender.

Stir in cream, cook for 8-10 minutes or until slightly thickened. Add the walnuts, basil and onion; heat through.
Drain tortellini; add to sauce and toss to coat.

Again, SO YUMMY!!! I am a huge mushroom fan, so I think they would be a fantastic addition to this. Also, if you wanted to add some chicken, I think it would be great also! Enjoy! :)

Black Bean Chicken with Rice

I wanted a quick recipe tonight that called for few ingredients and I found this one. It was incredibly easy and was FULL of flavor. It definitely has a kick to it, so beware!

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Black Bean Chicken with Rice

3 teaspoons chili powder (I might use a little less next time!)

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt

4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (I just used 3 chicken breasts)

2 teaspoons canola oil (I used olive oil)

1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup frozen corn

1 cup salsa

2 cups cooked brown rice

Combine the chili powder, cumin, pepper and salt.

Rub spices over chicken. In a large nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray, brown chicken in oil on both sides.

Stir in the beans, corn and salsa. Cover and cook over medium heat for 10-15 minutes or until chicken is done. Serve chicken with rice and bean mixture.

I think my favorite part about this dish was the black bean mixture...YUM! I served it with some sliced avacado and I think next time I might even top it with some fresh cilantro. Enjoy! :)