A classic black bean salad is a must for picnics and potlucks. This vegan version gets its creaminess from blended avocado. Any mix of salad greens will work well, but try arugula if you want to give this hearty salad a peppery kick.

No-Cook Black Bean Salad

Serves 4

Active Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion

1 ripe avocado, roughly chopped

1/4 cup cilantro leaves

1/4 cup lime juice

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 clove garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon salt

8 cups mixed salad greens

2 medium ears corn, kernels removed, or 2 cups frozen corn, thawed and patted dry

1 pint grape tomatoes, halved

1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed

Place onion in a medium bowl, and cover with cold water. Set aside. Combine avocado, cilantro, lime juice, oil, garlic and salt in a mini food processor. Process, scraping down the sides as needed, until smooth and creamy.

Just before serving, combine salad greens, corn, tomatoes and beans in a large bowl. Drain the onions, and add to the bowl, along with the avocado dressing. Toss to coat.

Recipe nutrition: Per serving: 322 Calories, Total Fat: 16 g, Saturated Fat: 2 g, Cholesterol: 0 mg, Carbohydrates: 41 g, Fiber: 13 g, Total Sugars: 11 g, Added Sugars: 0 g, Protein: 11 g, Sodium: 407 mg, Potassium: 1238 mg, Folate: 260 mcg, Calcium: 113 mg

Carbohydrate Servings 2 1/2

(EatingWell is a magazine and website devoted to healthy eating as a way of life. Online at www.eatingwell.com.)