Tasty Protein Mash Recipe

I need to avoid potatoes due to my diabetes and my blood-type diet. Potatoes are not recommended for me. So I've been searching for an alternative. I thought about this the other day when craving some comfort food. I didn't have a lot of food in but I did have some cans of Pinto beans. Here's how I made this tasty mash:

I drained the water from the tin of Pinto beans and washed them. Then I popped the whole tinful in a microwave-safe deep dish and cooked on high for 3 minutes. I took them out and mashed them with a knob of butter, some pink salt and some smoked paprika. Then back into the microwave for a further minute. They were so tasty and filling. They hit the spot!

I have been wondering how else I could make other variations. I thought I could add some fried onions to the mash. One idea I had was to mix in some mozzarella cheese (any cheese in fact would suit) for the last minute of cooking. Perhaps experiment with different herbs and/or spices. Suggestions would be welcomed!

Just a wee word of warning: Beans are very good for your heart and full of protein too, but they do make you a little gassy! :D