"What's Cooking?" on Connecticut Channel 12

The Secret Ingredient is what's cooking!

You may have seen me on Channel 12 over the weekend demonstrating one of my very favorite side dishes, a Black Bean Salad with Cilantro.  As promised, here's the recipe!  Enjoy!

Black Bean Salad with Cilantro

Serves 6 as a side dish

 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed

½ cup diced carrot

½ cup diced red pepper

2 scallions (green parts only), sliced thinly

3 tablespoons chopped cilantro

For the dressing:

1 clove garlic

¼ cup red wine vinegar

½ cup olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Combine beans, carrots, peppers, and scallions in a large bowl.  Prepare the dressing by combining  the garlic, and vinegar in a small bowl.  While whisking, add the olive oil in a steady stream to create an emulsion.  Season to taste with salt and pepper.  Pour over the salad and mix gently but thoroughly (gently to avoid mashing the beans).  Add the chopped cilantro and mix again.  Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.  

This can be made up to one day in advance.  Store in refrigerator in an airtight container.  Check seasonings before serving.

Click here for more information about Tracy's Connecticut cooking classes at The Secret Ingredient Cooking School, or to read her other blog, Season to Taste.