Black Bean & Jalapeno Orzo Salad

Black Bean & Jalapeno Orzo Salad

  • Servings: at least 12 to 16
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Salad Ingredients:
1/2 pound orzo pasta, cooked according to instructions on package
1 each, red, yellow and green bell pepper, diced
¼ to ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
2 15-ounce cans of black beans, drained and rinsed well
1 to 2 avocados, chopped
2 cups cherry tomatoes, whole or cut in half

Jalapeno Dressing Ingredients:
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 ½ teaspoon tablespoons white wine vinegar
2 large garlic cloves
½ teaspoon salt
1 ½ teaspoons cumin
1 to 2 jalapeno peppers (taste to determine level of heat), seeded and chopped (add some seeds for extra heat as desired)
1 bunch cilantro – use stems too, except for very bottom part
½ cup canola oil

Directions:
Cook the pasta according to the direction on the package, until al dente. Drain and immediately rinse under cold water; set aside until cool.

In a food processor, blend all of the dressing ingredients until fully combined. Taste and add salt and other ingredients as desired.

In a large bowl, add the cooked pasta, all other salad ingredients and the dressing; toss gently until well combined. Cover and refrigerate. Remove salad from refrigerator to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.

To double this recipe:
Double all salad and dressing ingredients, except the jalapeno (unless desired) and increase the oil to 2/3 cup.