One of the signature appetizers at Don Pablo's Mexican Kitchen, a concoction of refried beans, cheese, onions, and chile peppers. Not bad if you're a fan of national chain Tex-Mex food, although I've noticed that at least at my local restaurant, the quality (in particular, the greasiness) fluctuates noticeably from visit to visit.

This recipe isn't an exact imitation, but it comes close, and at least in my opinion tastes better.

Ingredients:

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook for 5 minutes or until soft but not brown.

Place beans in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 1 1/2 minutes or until slightly warm and spreadable. Add all other ingredients and mix well. Microwave on high for 2 1/2 minutes or until hot. Stir well before serving. Serve with chips, or with soft flour tortillas cut into quarters.

1To get closer to the restaurant version, substitute 2 3-ounce cans of mild chopped green chiles and omit the adobo sauce. I prefer chipotles, though.

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