Pina Colada Drink Mix

My friend posted this on her blog a while back so Brenna and I tried it the other night. Mmmmmmm boy!

2 1/2 C sugar
1 1/2 C water

Boil to syrup consistency and cool ... does thicken some as it cools.

Pour syryp into a large container and stir in:

48 oz. can pineapple juice
1 pint 1/2 & 1/2
1/2 oz. coconut extract

Store in Ref. and stir before using. Place crushed ice in blender 1/2 full and pour in syrup to cover ... blend.

Quinoa with Black Beans and Cilantro

I took this from Epicurious.com, which got it from Bon Appetit. I hope you enjoy it!

1 Tbsp EVOO
2 cups chopped white onions
1 cup chopped red bell pepper
1 cup quinoa, rinsed, drained
2 tsps chili powder
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 cups water
1 15-oz can black beans, rinsed, drained
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro, divided (and optional for Grandma)
Crumbled Cotija cheese or feta cheese (also optional)
Fresh lime juice (optional, but I love it in it)

Heat oil in a heavy medium saucepan over med-hi heat. Add onions and red pepper; saute until beginning to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in next 4 ingredients. Add water; bring to boil. Cover, reduce heat to me-low, and simmer until quinoa is almost tender, about 14 minutes. Add beans and 1/4 cup cilanto; cook uncovered until heated through and liquid is fully absorbed, about 3 minutes. Transfer to bowl; sprinkle with 1/4 cup cilantro and cheese, if desired.