Crockin' on the Side...a new idea for the Crock Pot

I really enjoy cooking in the crock pot - it's easy, it makes the house smell good and it gives me a sense of efficiency when I come in from a day away from home only to find dinner almost ready!

While it's great to throw ingredients in for a chili, soup or BBQ beef/chicken/pork, don't underestimate all your crock pot's abilities...how about a side dish?  Maybe you are like me and have a friend who always brings the BEST baked beans and yet you can never replicate them just like her or him. Well, this recipe courtesy of HungryGirl.com is for you - it will get you pretty close!

Crock-Pot Fake-Baked Beans PER SERVING (3/4 cup): 174 calories, 0.75g fat, 473mg sodium, 36.5g carbs, 9g fiber, 12g sugars, 7.5g protein -- POINTS® value 3* Ingredients:One 6-oz. can tomato paste 1/4 cup molasses 2 tbsp. cider vinegar 1 tbsp. yellow mustard 1 tsp. chopped garlic 1/2 tsp. salt One 15-oz. can black beans, drained and rinsed One 15-oz. can pinto beans, drained and rinsed One 15-oz. can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed 3 cups finely chopped onion 2 cups finely chopped red bell pepper 1 cup finely chopped Fuji apple Directions: In a bowl, combine tomato paste, molasses, vinegar, mustard, garlic, and salt. Mix thoroughly and set aside. Place all remaining ingredients in the crock pot. Add the tomato paste mixture and toss to coat. Cover and cook on high for 3 - 4 hours or on low for 7 - 8 hours. Stir well and then serve it up! MAKES 10 SERVINGS