Recipe: Bean salad with balsamic vinaigrette

Dietitian's tip: Garbanzos — also known as chickpeas — and black beans are an excellent source of soluble fiber, the type of fiber that can help control blood cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

High fiber = at least 5 g of fiber per serving

SERVES 6

Ingredients

For the vinaigrette
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
Ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 can (15 ounces) garbanzos, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 medium red onion, diced
6 lettuce leaves
1/2 cup celery, finely chopped

Directions

To make the vinaigrette, in a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, parsley, garlic and pepper. While whisking, slowly add the olive oil. Set aside.

In a large bowl, combine the beans and onion. Pour the vinaigrette over the mixture and toss gently to mix well and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate until served.

To serve, put 1 lettuce leaf on each plate. Divide the salad among the individual plates and garnish with chopped celery. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Analysis

(per serving)

Calories	270	Cholesterol	0 mg
Protein	10 g	Sodium	285 mg
Carbohydrate	33 g	Fiber	7 g
Total fat	11 g	Potassium	453 mg
Saturated fat	2 g	Calcium	60 mg
Monounsaturated fat	7 g