Black Lime

If you are a salad person but you want a little more than just lettuce and vegetables, here is a recipe for you. This black bean chicken salad with lime vinaigrette dressing combines healthy black beans, fresh tomatoes, bell peppers, onion, cheese, salad greens, and chicken. This gives you a meal in one dish. You have meat, vegetables, and dairy. Combine all that with this tasty lime vinaigrette dressing and you add citrus and heart-healthy olive oil. Not only do you have a complete healthy meal, you have a tasty one. And this salad is perfect for diabetics too. Give it a try and you will no doubt add this new recipe to your file.

BLACK BEAN CHICKEN SALAD WITH LIME VINAIGRETTE DRESSING

SALAD:

6 cups mixed salad greens

1 1/2 cups cubed grilled or sauted chicken breast

1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinse well and drain

1 cup chopped fresh tomatoes

1 cup chopped green bell pepper

1/2 cup sliced, halved red onion

1/2 cup low-fat mexican-blend shredded cheese

DRESSING:

1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro

1/4 cup finely chopped tomato

1 tbsp vinegar (I prefer cider vinegar)

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp lime juice

1/2 tsp lime zest

1 garlic cloved, minced

dash of salt

1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

1/4 tsp chili powder

In a large salad bowl, combine the salad ingredients. In a food processor or blender, combine the dressing ingredients. Place lid on container and process until you have a smooth dressing. Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat.

Makes 4 servings. Each serving: 298 calories, 26 g carbs, 28 g protein

Note: I adapted this recipe from one I saw in a Light & Tasty magazine a few years ago.

Enjoy!