I love chili. It's my favorite cold weather dish. And it's a great way to get full and load up on extra vegetables. It's easy to make and packed with flavor.

Last week I made what I call confetti chili. (I am pretty sure there is already a dish out there with the same name... but whatevs.)

One thing about this recipe I love is that it's totally customizable, but it's also great for busy nights. And it's real food.

What you'll need:

1/2 pound lean ground beef or turkey or chicken or venison

1 28 ounce can diced tomatoes

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, diced

2 tbsp taco seasoning (or a package from the store- I use this because NO MSG!)

1 12 ounce bag Bird's Eye Southwest Blend mixed vegetables

-OR-

2 medium onions, diced

1 can black beans

1 can whole kernel corn

1 small red pepper

1 small Poblano pepper with the seed removed

Cook garlic and onions over a low heat until they are translucent. Add in your meat and brown. Then add in your taco seasoning.

Then I add in my Southwest Blend. In a perfect world I would use all fresh ingredients, but I got this bag free with a coupon and for days when you're busy it's nice to have handy.

Add in your tomatoes and stir.

Cover and let simmer for 20-30 minutes.

Garnish with sour cream and cheese and serve.

What's your favorite cool weather dish?

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