Roasted bell pepper not only boosts the flavor of this creamy chick-pea spread but adds color as well. Serve with toasted pita bread pieces, heart-healthy crackers, or vegetable dippers.

Lentils and a potato provide wholesome fiber in this hearty main-dish soup.

You can make this classic Italian soup in about a half hour from start to finish.

A popular dish in the Lone Star State, where it is called Texas Caviar, this flavorful salad is sure to become a favorite in your household, too. Even people who "don't like" black-eyed peas like them prepared this way.

This main-dish salad is attractive, tastes good, and takes only minutes to prepare. It's a winner from every perspective.

Bright yellow pasta, dark black beans, and colorful bell peppers make this currylike salad beautiful. It's a great one-dish meal to take on a picnic or pack for brown bag lunches.

Ground chicken, black beans, and a handful of seasonings make these soft tacos a family favorite. If desired, serve them with chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, shredded nonfat or low-fat cheddar cheese, and your favorite salsa or taco sauce.

Every cook has a favorite chili recipe—we think this one will be yours. Like many other soups and stews, it tastes best when made the day before, allowing the flavors to mingle.

For a speedy dinner that requires little effort, try this savory blend of ground beef, carrots, and lentils. Unlike dried beans, lentils don't require any soaking time and cook quickly.

This recipe will show you how easy it is to prepare Louisiana's most popular comfort food.