Quinoa and Black Bean Pilaf

• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 1 large red bell pepper, sliced into thin 1/2 inch strips
• 1 large green bell pepper, sliced into thin 1/2 inch strips
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1 tbsp. chopped garlic
• 2 tbsp. tomato paste
• 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 - 15 oz. cans black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup shredded reduced fat sharp cheddar cheese

Heat the olive oil in a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat.  Add the bell peppers and onion and cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Add the garlic, tomato paste, cayenne and salt and cook, stirring continuously, 2 minutes. Stir in the quinoa and add 2 1/4 cups water, mix well.  Stir in the beans.  Bring to a simmer, cover and cook until most of the water is absorbed and the quinoa is cooked through,  20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the cheese.

Enjoy!