Beginners Gardening.?

Hi I'm looking to start a garden of my own this year. First you should know where I live... I live in Albuquerque New Mexico, and I live approx 1/2 mile from the Rio Grand ( river ). The yard that I'm planting a garden in is very fertile ( thanks to my landlord who lives next door - nearly a master gardener ) I want to plant something that will not use to much care or water ( no cactus ). Any ideas would help. Thanks.