Different Baked Beans With Orange & Salsa: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish
Looking for an exciting and flavorful side dish that’s both easy to prepare and healthy? These Baked Beans with Orange & Salsa provide a unique twist on the classic recipe, infusing the beans with a touch of citrusy sweetness from the orange juice and the zesty kick of chunky salsa. It’s a great complement to any meal, from BBQ steak to grilled corn on the cob. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or just looking to mix up your regular side dishes, this recipe offers a fantastic balance of flavors.
The best part? It only takes about 11 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect addition to any weeknight meal or holiday gathering. Plus, it’s packed with fiber and protein, ensuring you get a nutrient-dense dish without compromising on taste. Here’s how to make this delightful dish.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chunky salsa | 2 cups |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp |
| Sour cream (or cottage cheese) | 3 tbsp |
| Orange juice | 1/4 cup |
| Green onions, chopped | 1/2 cup |
| Cottage cheese (optional, instead of sour cream) | 1/4 cup (optional) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280.4 kcal |
| Fat | 7.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 12.7 mg |
| Sodium | 1076.2 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 50 g |
| Fiber | 9.5 g |
| Sugars | 21.4 g |
| Protein | 11.8 g |
Instructions:
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Heat the beans: Start by placing your beans (canned or pre-cooked) into a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure they heat through evenly.
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Add salsa and cumin: Once the beans are warm, pour in the chunky salsa and sprinkle in the cumin. Stir gently to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Cook the beans: Let the mixture cook on low heat for a few more minutes. If it becomes too juicy from the salsa, allow it to simmer gently to thicken slightly.
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Stir in orange juice: After the beans are well-cooked, remove them from the heat and stir in the fresh orange juice. This will add a light and tangy flavor to the dish, complementing the spice of the salsa.
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Serve and garnish: Spoon the beans onto serving plates. Top with a generous dollop of sour cream (or cottage cheese if you prefer) and sprinkle with freshly chopped green onions. For an extra touch, you can also add 1/4 cup of sliced ripe olives as a garnish for an added layer of flavor.
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Enjoy: Serve the beans alongside your favorite main course, such as BBQ steak or grilled corn on the cob, and enjoy this healthy and flavorful side dish.
Recipe Tips & Variations:
- For a lighter alternative, replace the sour cream with cottage cheese, as this reduces the fat content and adds a creamy texture.
- You can also adjust the level of heat by choosing a mild or spicy salsa, depending on your preferences.
- This dish can easily be halved to serve two people, or you can add extra beans to make a larger batch for a crowd.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy, easy-to-make side dish that doesn’t require hours of cooking. It’s ideal for anyone trying to eat more vegetables or maintain a low-cholesterol diet while enjoying a tasty and satisfying meal.
