So, I have a confession to make. Lately, I have been rather lazy and uninspired in the kitchen. And I have been craving lots of “bad” stuff: cheese, carbs, melted cheese, hot carbs, cold cheese, crunchy carbs… you get it. Same ingredients, different ways: not great for the waistline!
And a few days ago all I wanted for dinner was a big plate of cheesy nachos. I thought about going to pick some up, or going out, but then I took a step back and said to myself, “Self, you can make tasty, but healthier nachos at home. Stop being so lazy!” (Sometimes I have to just be straight up with you guys- I talk to myself).
So I grabbed a can of TJ’s Cuban Black Beans from my pantry…
These are great for those lazy nights because they are pre-cooked with onion, green peppers, and lots of spices. Great flavor! Even if you don’t have a TJ’s near you, I am sure you can find beans in your store that are cooked with spices and veggies. This will save you a lot of time on nights when you just don’t have the energy to do it yourself.
I heated up a big bowl of beans and topped them with chopped tomato, part-skim mozzarella cheese, low fat yogurt (instead of sour cream), and salsa. I had some sweet potato ruffle chips (also from TJ’s) and corn chips on the side.
This was SO GOOD! I think the key to making this dish healthy is to load up on beans and skimp a little on the chips. The chips are great for a little crunch, and to satisfy the carb craving, but the beans are really what keeps you feeling full and satisfied. And low fat yogurt or sour cream gives you that hearty, creamy taste without all the fat.
And as long as you are eating chips, might as well go for the sweet potato ones and have some extra vitamins, right?
A perfect bite…
I’m sure you guys have made “nachos” at home- no big cooking revelation here- but t it really was so satisfying for me. So much better than going out for a big plate of Mexican food, and coming home feeling nauseous, bloated, gassy, and like you just gained 5 pounds in salt/ water retention. Sometimes it’s just not worth it!
the nachos look great – i’m inspired!
I love making nachos at home … I go through phases where all I want is carbs and cheese 🙂
Jolene,
Great to hear from you! I wanted to let you know that I am having issues posting a comment on your blog. I have tried a few times and it says it cant process it right now! 😦 I am reading!
Yummmy looking nachos! I love making them at home and always add goat cheese and sundried tomatos. I also have to have guac on the side. Your totally right though about the feeling you get after eating them out. Total overload! I think it’s the time of the year (cravings wise) I have been having a hard time sticking to healthier options. Once it gets warmer and springier out I think I’ll be more apt to go for salads and fruit instead of cheese and bread!
These nachos look so good! I love homemade ones but rarely make them (for no reason). Your post made me crave some!!
You seriously can’t put a picture of food like that in front of a pregnant lady without making her drool seriously!
Now I have to go home and make that.
Love making healthy nachos! An indulgence you can feel good about 🙂
– Beth @ http://www.DiningAndDishing.com
Holy Moly!
I´ve never tried nachos, but after reading this post.. I´m tempted!
Hahahahaha 😉
Have a great week, girl!
Brazilian XOXO´s,
Gabriela
Those look really really good. I love trying to take something not so healthy for you, and turn it into something healthy that you can eat!
Those nachos look amazing!
your nachos look so good! i’ll have to look for those sweet potato chips next time i go to trader joe’s