Quick Black Bean Soup

Ingredients

1Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 or 4 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
6 - 15 oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed
2 - 14 oz cans vegetable or chicken broth
1 - 15 oz can chili ready tomatoes
1 - 15 oz can petite diced tomatoes
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
2 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional toppings: Green onions (minced), cheddar cheese, sour cream, or plain yogurt.

Directions:

Heat oil in a large soup pot. Saute the onions over moderate heat until translucent. Add the garlic and saute until the onions are lightly golden.

Puree 3 cans of the beans and the chili ready tomatoes, then add to the onions and garlic.

Add the broth, and remaining ingredients.

Simmer about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

Serve hot topped with one or two of the optional toppings. My personal favorites are green onions and cheddar cheese. Also, I like to serve sides of cornbread with this soup.

Serves: 6-8

ENJOY!!