Healthy new year

I don't so much get into the idea of "diets," especially those that make you completely eliminate some portion of your diet. That's ridiculous. But I do support the idea of trying to eat as healthfully and wholly as possible (meaning less processed junk), especially since that wedding dress is due to arrive in a month or so, and I've gotta fit into it!

Thankfully, I have support in this area. I believe I've mentioned my awesome coworkers before? We swap recipes and cooking ideas all the time. And one of them does Weight Watchers, and is generous enough to share all her healthy recipe successes with the rest of us.

So when she texted me a black bean salad recipe on New Year's Day (as I was cooking up collards, no less), I knew I'd be making it, especially since my sweet B LOVES black beans. Plus, black beans are super low-fat and low-calorie while being high in fiber and stuff to keep you full.

This recipe did not go that smoothly. Our kitchen ingredients regularly trade houses (depending on who's cooking what where), and much like our dog, will be very happy when we're all living in one place. As will I - both the garlic and the red wine vinegar were hanging out at B's, so we had to make two separate trips to the Bi-Lo across the street from my house because we didn't realize we needed both at one time. So.

However, once we got the ingredients we actually needed, the recipe was very quick and easy. Saute some onions, add garlic and cumin and keep sauteing, add black beans and continue, then once everything is warm and delicious, toss in a big bowl with oranges, red wine vinegar, and cilantro.

We made a double batch, and we also made some modifications after the fact (for the leftovers), but overall it was still pretty good. I thought there was too much cumin, and it could also use more red wine vinegar. B suggested putting hot sauce into it, which we did, and it was delicious. It was hearty and citrus-y, and just really good. This would be a great side dish for a picnic or potluck. It's also vegetarian, gluten free, and healthy. We give this a big thumbs-up, and will definitely be making it again, especially once the weather is warmer.

Try it yourself, and let me know what modifications you make and what you think. And have a happy, healthy new year!

Orange-cilantro black bean salad

Ingredients:
1/2 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 medium uncooked red onion, thinly sliced (we used white onion)
2 medium garlic cloves, finely chopped
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
2 medium oranges, peeled and segmented
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar (again, I felt it could use more)
salt and pepper
hot sauce

Directions:
In large skillet, warm oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and saute for 2 minutes.
Add garlic and cumin and cook one minute more.
Stir in black beans; cook until just heated through, about 1.5 - 2 mins.
Pour into medium-sized bowl.
Stir in oranges, cilantro and vinegar. Season to taste with hot sauce, salt and pepper.
Enjoy!