Black Bean Dip

Looking for a great snack to take to your next party or keep around the house? Look no further! The Black Bean Dip recipe listed below is the one I get asked for the most. (In fact, many of you may already have it!) The best part of this dip is how nutrient-rich it is. Avocados are known to lower your bad cholesterol and raise your good cholesterol..not to mention it is packed full of the "good" fat.  Black beans are high in protein, fiber and folate, They also are top in the bean family for antioxidant content. Red peppers have an ingredient (capsaicin) in it that is known for decreasing your appetite and cilantro can even help fight bacteria common in food poisoning. All that in one great tasting dip! What are you waiting for---get to the grocery store!

Black Bean Dip

2 medium ripe avocados, peeled and diced

2 tablespoons lime juice

1 can (15 ¼ oz) whole kernel corn, drained

1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 medium sweet red pepper, chopped

6 green onions, chopped

2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon red wine vinegar

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp pepper

In a bowl, combine avocados and lime juice; let stand for 10 minutes. In a large bowl, combine the corn, beans, red pepper, onions, cilantro and garlic. In a small bowl, whisk the oil, vinegar, salt and pepper. Drizzle over corn mixture; toss to coat.  Gently fold in the avocado mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hrs or until chilled. Serve with tortilla chips, pita chips, in a pita, or eat by itself!