Polenta and Peppers: A great break from the holidays

Tired of the traditional foods of the holidays, I wanted something a little different. If I take one more bite of sweet potatoes this week and I just might scream.

Don't get me wrong, I love all those traditional holiday foods, but I like variety in my diet and I have had my fill of those things for a few weeks.

So, armed with a new set of pots and pans that were a gift from my father-in-law on Christmas, I set about finding something just a little different to satisfy my lunch cravings.

Something a little spicy, but not too much. One pan. Some beans. Some cheese. All those things that aren't considered particularly celebratory foods, which I happen to love.

This is a great snack for a cool (or cold) day because it is warm and a bit spicy, which will help raise your body temperature just a little. Hot peppers are good for you on many levels, many studies have shown.

Hot peppers may help to improve heart health by boosting the body's ability to dissolve blood clots. The capsaicin in peppers also fights inflammation, which has been identified as a risk factor for heart disease. Eating chili peppers, such as jalapenos  may also improve circulation and lower blood pressure.

So here is a tasty treat that might be just a little good for you too.

Polenta with Black Beans and Salsa

1 8-by-8 inch pan of baked polenta
3 tablespoons of butter
1 15 ounce can of black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup of chunky salsa
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 tablespoon of jalapeno pepper, finely chopped
2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 cup of shredded Pepper Jack cheese
1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

• Cut polenta into 1/2 inch squares.
• In a medium bowl, combine the black beans, the salsa, the green pepper, the cilantro, the cheeses and mix the gently. Set this bowl aside.
• In heavy nonstick skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the polenta squares; fry, turning once, until they are golden and crispy.
• Put a heaping tablespoon of the bean mixture on each square of polenta and enjoy.

Vegetarian.