Summer Fresh Black Bean Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Barbecue season is here. As we prepare to soak up the sun and spark up the grill, a fresh bounty of garden produce is just waiting to be plucked from the vine, and added to a healthy summer menu.

The last place I want to be on a warm summer day is cooped up indoors--especially in the kitchen. That's why I like dishes prepared ahead of time in the cool morning hours, ready for the picnic table when the steaks come hot off the grill, still sizzling on the platter.

My Black Bean Salad With Balsamic Vinaigrette is the perfect healthy side dish for any summer cookout. Make this salad recipe in the morning so it has plenty of time to marinate throughout the day.

I use Marzetti Balsamic Vinaigrette as the perfect light compliment to the fresh flavors of cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, and black beans. Marzetti Balsamic Vinaigrette is well balanced--unlike other vinaigrettes that are often too acidic, salty, or sweet.

The subtle flavor of Marzetti's won't overpower the vegetables. It coats each bite with a slightly sweet balsamic tang, adding a perfect compliment to the crisp, fresh vegetables and creamy flavor and texture of the black beans. The salad stores well in the refrigerator, and can be made a day ahead if you like.

My favorite summer menu below, all cooked on the outdoor grill, allows me time to spend enjoying family and friends, rather than slaving in the kitchen.

Menu

Grilled Steak, Fish or Chicken

Black Bean Salad With Marzetti Balsamic Vinaigrette

Corn on the Cob

Grilled Garlic Bread

Cold Watermelon Wedges

Recipe for Black Bean Salad With Balsamic Vinaigrette

3 cups sliced English cucumbers (skins on)

2 cups sliced Roma tomatoes

1 can 15 oz. can of black beans drained and rinsed

1 yellow or orange sweet pepper cored and sliced in thin 2" strips

½ medium red or sweet white onion sliced in thin 1-2" strips

3 oz. Marzetti Balsamic Vinaigrette

3 Tbl. Green onion cut in small ½" pieces

¼ tsp. kosher salt

Mix all ingredients and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

* Optional items

Chunks of Avocado

Sweet Roasted Corn (rather than corn on the cob)

Kalamata Olives

Feta Cheese

Basil