Black Bean & Corn Salad

This is an amazing salad that keeps very well in the refrigerator, make it at the beginning of the week and enjoy for lunch throughout the week. I love to add a few slices of fresh avocado. Also great with grilled chicken, fish, tacos or fajitas.

RECIPE:

1- 14 oz. can black beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups frozen white corn, thawed
½ red pepper, finely chopped
½ red onion, finely chopped
1 small jalapeño pepper, seeded & finely chopped
1 small bunch fresh cilantro, cleaned & chopped
2 limes, juiced
1 T. honey
1 T. olive oil
1 large crushed clove garlic, or 1 t. granulated garlic
½ t. salt
¼ t. pepper.

1) In medium sized bowl, mix black beans through cilantro.
2) In small mixing bowl, whisk remaining ingredients until blended. Pour over bean mixture and mix well. Refrigerate immediately after use. Best when used within 5 days. Makes about eight ½ cup servings.

Fresh Tossed Garden Salad with Creamy Yogurt Ranch Dressing

It is more important than ever that we eat fresh, raw vegetables. I have come up with a delicious and lighter version of ranch dressing. The ingredients are real, low fat, and you can pronounce them! Use any fresh greens and vegetables you like.

CREAMY YOGURT RANCH DRESSING:

1 cup low fat plain yogurt
1 T. mayonnaise
2 t. Dijon mustard
2 T. cider vinegar
¼ cup honey
1 t. kosher salt
½ t. fresh ground pepper
1 t. granulated garlic
1 t. granulated onion
¼ cup olive oil

Whisk all ingredients together in a medium sized mixing bowl. Refrigerate immediately after use. This will remain fresh refrigerated for two weeks.