Crème de Menthe Brownies

Take your brownies to the next level!  Try this easy recipe and wow your friends at your next party!

• 1 package brownie mix
• 1/2 C. plus 6 T. butter
• 2 C. Confectioner's sugar 
• 2 T. Crème de Menthe 
• 1 tsp. Vanilla 
• 6 oz. Chocolate chips*              

1. Follow package directions for making brownies except bake in a jellyroll pan (11x17) and bake for only 15 minutes.  
2. Cool brownies in refrigerator. 
3. Combine 1/2 butter, Confectioner's sugar, Crème de Menthe, and vanilla, mixing until creamy.  
4. Spread this icing on brownies.  
5. Heat 6 T. butter and chocolate chips in microwave or double boiler until melted.  
6. Dribble chocolate mixture onto brownies.  
7. Do not completely cover – have some of the green icing showing.  
8. Refrigerate until ready to serve.  
9. Freezes well. Enjoy!

*If you can find and use Hershey’s Chocolate Mint Chips instead of regular, it will intensify the mint flavor.

Black Bean & Tomato Quinoa

Black beans are an excellent source of fiber and protein. Quinoa is a light crispy protein-packed whole grain. Mix them together and you’ve got a high protein meal with energizing nutrients to keep you strong and healthy! 

Try this satisfying Black Bean & Tomato Quinoa… delicately enhanced with a touch of lime, this dish packs the power of whole grains and tons of flavor.

Ingredients:

2 tsp. grated lime zest, grated peel

2 Tbs. fresh lime juice

1 Tbs. olive oil

1 tsp. sugar

1 cup quinoa

1 can (15 oz.) black beans, rinsed & drained

2 medium tomatoes, diced

4 scallions, chopped

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

salt & pepper (to taste)

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk lime zest and juice, olive oil, sugar, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/4 tsp. pepper.
2. Wash quinoa in cold water, drain, and place in a medium pot of 2 1/4 C. boiling water with 1 tsp. of salt.
3. Cook with pot covered, simmering gently for 20 –25 minutes.
4. Using a fork, fluff the quinoa to allow it to aerate while it cools.
5. Add quinoa to dressing and toss until dressing is absorbed, then stir in remaining ingredients and salt and pepper to taste.

This recipe was sent by RT Peck

From Meatout Mondays listserv.