Black Bean, Corn, and Rice Salad

Covered dish dinners are a huge part of the social fabric in my part of the world.  My criteria for selecting a dish to take to one of these functions include the following:

·         The dish should be able to be kept at a safe temperature until served; usually refrigerator space is more available than oven space.

·         Ingredients should be readily available; sometimes dishes have to be put together quickly, without a lot of advance notice.

·         There should be a decent amount of eye appeal.

·         I need to like the dish well enough to eat the leftovers in case there are any.

This recipe had its origins in my attempt to copy a blackeyed pea and rice salad that I ate at a funeral meal in Colorado City, Texas.  How difficult could it be to toss together some canned blackeyed peas, cooked rice, chopped vegetables, and a dressing?  I have been making a variation of the dish for years because it is a good dish to take to a gathering, and it is easy to prepare.  The basics of beans, rice, and vegetables can be changed to suit your preferences.  Omit the cumin and cilantro and use other herbs.  Use any type of rice, couscous, or bulgur.  Add chopped tomatoes or patio type tomatoes.  Use bottled vinaigrette.  Know your audience – some groups will tolerate black beans, while others are more likely to eat blackeyed peas.  The sky’s the limit!

Black Bean, Corn, and Rice Salad

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

3 ears fresh corn, cooked

1 cup Jasmine rice, cooked

1 green pepper, chopped

½ medium red onion, chopped

½ cup cilantro leaves

¼ cup olive oil

Juice of 2 small limes

¼ cup cumin

1 large clove garlic, pressed or finely minced

Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, and garlic for the dressing.  Combine black beans, corn, rice, green pepper, onion, and cilantro in a large bowl and gently toss with the dressing.  Chill before serving; garnish with cilantro.  Yield:  10 to 12 servings.

Tips:  This YouTube video on microwaving corn changed my life!  It works every time.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnBF6bv4Oe4

Jasmine rice is more flavorful than regular white rice - try it!