Cheesy Black Bean Dip

Ingredients

 * 6 slices bacon
 * 2 garlic cloves, minced
 * 1 (15 ounces) can black beans, drained, rinsed & mashed
 * 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
 * 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese or monterey jack cheese, shredded
 * 2/3 cup picante sauce
 * 1/3 cup green onions, sliced
 * 1teaspoon dried oregano
 * 1 teaspoon ground cumin
 * 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
 * 1 tablespoon cilantro or parsley, minced (to garnish)

Directions

 * In a skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp.
 * Remove bacon from pan, crumble, and set aside.
 * If there is more than about 1 tablespoon of grease in the pan, drain off some of the excess.
 * Saute garlic in bacon drippings for 1-2 minutes.
 * Add beans, cheese, picante sauce, onions, oregano, cumin, and cayenne to pan, and mix well.
 * Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until cheese is melted.
 * Stir in bacon.
 * Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish if desired and serve with chips or vegetables.