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!