Revised Cucina Bean Salad π₯
Overview:
This modified rendition of the classic Cucina Bean Salad recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or as a healthy snack option. Packed with nutritious ingredients like beans, vegetables, and greens, this salad is not only delicious but also vegan-friendly and suitable for potlucks or festive occasions like Christmas. With minimal prep time and no cooking required, it’s an ideal choice for busy days when you crave something wholesome and savory.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Serving: Makes 4 servings
- Calories: Approximately 220 per serving
- Dietary Information: Vegan, Low-Fat
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 ounces) great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 large red bell pepper, diced
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, diced
- 3/4 cup chopped green onion
- 3/4 cup mild salsa
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 head romaine lettuce, shredded
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Bean Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the great northern beans, black beans, and cherry tomatoes.
- Add the diced red and yellow bell peppers along with the chopped green onions to the bowl.
- Stir lightly to ensure that each color is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
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Prepare the Spice Mixture:
- In a separate small bowl, combine the mild salsa, red wine vinegar, chopped cilantro, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Whisk together the ingredients until well combined, creating a flavorful dressing for the salad.
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Combine and Toss:
- Pour the prepared spice mixture over the bean and vegetable mixture in the large bowl.
- Gently toss everything together until the beans and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
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Advance Preparation (Optional):
- If desired, the bean and spice mixture can be safely prepared up to two days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
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Assemble the Salad:
- Line a large shallow bowl or serving platter with the shredded romaine lettuce.
- Top the lettuce with the prepared bean mixture, spreading it evenly over the bed of greens.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Revised Cucina Bean Salad immediately as a vibrant and nutritious dish that’s bursting with flavor.
- Enjoy it as a satisfying lunch, a wholesome snack, or as a side dish at your next gathering.
Tips:
- For added freshness and crunch, consider adding some sliced avocado or cucumber to the salad.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences by adding more salt, pepper, or cilantro as desired.
- Feel free to customize the salad by incorporating your favorite beans or additional vegetables, such as diced cucumber or shredded carrots.
- To make the salad more filling, serve it alongside some crusty bread or cooked grains like quinoa or brown rice.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 1.3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 251mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 41.7g
- Dietary Fiber: 15g
- Sugars: 5.2g
- Protein: 14.4g
Conclusion:
This Revised Cucina Bean Salad offers a delightful medley of flavors and textures, making it a versatile and nutritious addition to any mealtime repertoire. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch option, a satisfying snack, or a vibrant side dish for special occasions, this salad is sure to please your taste buds and nourish your body. With its simple preparation and wholesome ingredients, it’s a recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy the goodness of beans, vegetables, and spices in every delicious bite! π±π π₯
