cannellini bean salad

When people find out that I've stopped consuming meat one of the first questions they ask me is "How do you get your protein?" Aside from soy products, nuts, and grains, I often turn to beans and lentils for protein. Here are 5 reasons why you shouldn't care if beans make you fart:

1. Beans are plentiful sources of antioxidants, giving them the ability to help keep your appearance young and vibrant.
2. Beans are a great source of dietary fiber, which promotes a healthy digestive tract, helps lower blood cholesterol levels, and can reduce the risk of some types of cancer.
3. Beans actually contain a wider variety of healthy nutrients than most foods. These include protein, calcium, potassium, vitamin B6, magnesium, folate, and alpha-linolenic acid. These nutrients work together on several key areas of the body promoting total health.
4. Studies done in universities have shown that eating beans on a regular basis reduces a person’s risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and obesity.
5. Beans help to curb hunger, and offer the body valuable sources of ready energy that it can burn quickly and effectively. Because of this, beans boost energy levels, and as a result, promote weight loss.

Beans are so good for you, and taste delicious when they are served up right. This cannellini bean salad is so easy to make and has a light and refreshing flavor that reminds you of summer. Top this bean salad on a bed of mixed greens to create a healthy and sophisticated salad that you can enjoy for lunch or dinner!


Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon minced red onion
• 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 medium cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and diced
• 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
• salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. Whisk oil, vinegar, onion, and oregano in a large mixing bowl
2. Add cucumbers, beans, and bell pepper
3. Toss to combine all ingredients
4. Season with salt and pepper and serve