Naturally Santa Fe Beans

Regina
Oct 19, 2015
2 min read

Updated: Nov 11

This is an excellent recipe for Haystack or a side dish. Be sure to sort the beans, laying them out on their flat side, looking for those sneaky rocks hidden the bag of beans. I found 1 rock per bag of beans, which could cause a trip the dentist for a tooth crack. Here is game you can play: find the rock - hint: it is gray in color!

🌿 What Is a Haystack?

If you’ve never heard of a Haystack, imagine a vibrant, customizable tower of flavor — a hearty salad-meets-taco-bowl that starts with a crunchy base and builds up layers of goodness. Traditionally, a Haystack begins with corn chips or baked tortilla chips, followed by a generous scoop of beans (like your Naturally Santa Fe Beans!), then fresh vegetables such as shredded lettuce, tomatoes, olives, onions, and bell peppers. Many top it with salsa, guacamole, or vegan cheese sauce, and sometimes a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of creamy dressing.

Each person assembles their own plate, so no two Haystacks look exactly alike — and that’s part of the joy! It’s a meal that brings everyone together around the table, encouraging creativity, conversation, and community.

🌞 Why Haystacks Are Perfect for Sabbath Meals

Haystacks have become a classic Sabbath lunch in many Adventist homes and gatherings because they are:

Simple to prepare ahead of time. Most ingredients can be prepped before Sabbath — beans cooked, vegetables chopped, sauces made — so there’s no need for cooking on the day of rest.
Customizable for all tastes and dietary needs. Whether vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or simply health-conscious, everyone can enjoy building their own balanced, satisfying plate.

Wholesome and refreshing. It’s a light, nourishing meal that energizes without weighing you down, allowing you to rest and fellowship joyfully.

Symbolic of unity. Just as the many layers form one delicious dish, Sabbath meals like the Haystack remind us that we are many members, yet one body in Christ (Romans 12:5).