When I want a small meal of bold flavors, I turn to beans. Versatile, easy and delicious, they make a fabulous summer salad ...

Both green and wax beans have an earthy, mildly sweet flavor with a refreshing crunch when eaten raw. Then, the earthy flavor and texture soften when cooked and take on whatever seasonings you use.

Meanwhile, soften the onion in the oil with sea salt. Stir in the seasonings, green chiles and beans with ½ cup water to prevent the beans from drying out. Keep warm. Split the sweet potatoes ...