BLACK BEAN AND CORN CHOWDER

1 cup half and half

2 (15 oz.) cans black beans, divided

1 cup chopped onion

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 tsp. olive oil

1 cup salsa

2/3 cup frozen corn

2 T. lime juice

1 ½ tsp. cumin

Salt to taste

Avocado (optional)

Sour cream and cheese (optional)

In a blender, blend half and half and 1 ½ cups of black beans until smooth.  Sauté onion in oil until softened and then add garlic and cook until fragrant.  Stir in salsa, corn, lime, cumin, and remaining beans.  Add the creamed mixture and cook until heated through.  Add salt to taste, probably ¼ teaspoon or so.  Serve with avocado, sour cream, and cheese if desired.