This hearty southwest dip will be flavorful with crackers or vegetables while watching a game or after a winter outing.

1 can (15 oz.) black beans, rinsed, drained

1 cup salsa

1/2 cup beer or apple juice

1 cup (4 oz.) shredded Cheddar cheese

1 medium avocado, peeled, chopped

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1. Combine black beans, salsa and beer in 1-quart microwave-safe casserole. Mix well.

2. MICROWAVE (100%), uncovered, 15 to 20 minutes or until mixture thickens, stirring occasionally. Mash until desired consistency with fork. Cool slightly.

3. Spread bean mixture on serving plate. Top with cheese, avocado and cilantro. Serve with favorite chips or fresh vegetables.

About 2 1/2 Cups

TIPS · Cook bean mixture ahead through step 2. Have other ingredients ready, but wait to add them until after heating bean mixture 2 to 2 1/2 minutes. Assemble just before serving.

>If avocado will be standing, coat with 1 to 2 tablespoons fresh lemon or lime juice to prevent discoloring.

>Use a spatter screen if necessary to keep bean mixture from spattering inside of oven.

Nutrition Info/2 Tablespoons: 47 calories, 2 g protein, 3 g carbohydrate, 3 g fat, 6 mg cholesterol, 103 mg sodium, .7 g dietary fiber.