Two Bean Health Salad with Dressing Oreganato recipe by Rita Heikenfeld on GourmetBetty.com

TWO BEAN HEALTH SALAD

WITH DRESSING OREGANATO

by Rita Nader Heikenfeld, CCP, CMH

Dressing:
I usually add more red wine vinegar. Go to taste on the herbs and spices, as well. Remember, you can always add more.

3-4 tablespoons red wine vinegar or more to taste
1/2 cup olive oil or less to taste
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder or more to taste
2 teaspoons garlic
2 teaspoons fresh oregano or 1 teaspoon dry
Red pepper flakes to taste

Salad:
2 cans beans: your choice, drained and rinsed
1 bunch green onions, chopped
2-3 plum tomatoes, chopped (or use a large regular tomato)
4 ribs celery or more to taste, diced
1 large bell pepper, diced
Handful of chopped greens
Sea salt to taste

Whisk together dressing ingredients. Set aside while mixing salad ingredients. Pour dressing over salad. Toss gently to blend. Serve with crusty whole grain bread. Serves 10-12 for a side salad.

Email Rita: life@communitypress.com or rwilson@natorp.com, attn Rita
My books are: Culinary Herbs that Heal Body and Soul and The Official Snack Guide for Beleaguered Sports Parents (available in select stores throughout Cincinnati and online on GourmetBetty.com

To Read Rita Heikenfeld's article on the health benefits of Oregano, click here.

Note about recipes that require baking: none of my instructions call for "greasing the pan". The Silpat and Silicone Bakeware "Flexipan" molds which I use do not require additional grease. If you're using a traditional baking pan or sheet, you must 'grease the pan'. Please contact me with any questions.