Black Bean and Corn Salad

This salad is not only pretty to look at and very delicious, it’s actually quite healthy for you! And it’s a good one to take to picnics because there’s no mayonnaise in it. It can handle sitting out for a bit without poisoning any attendees — always a plus, right?

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/3 cup lime juice

1 tsp. minced garlic

1 tsp. salt

dash of crushed red pepper

2  15-oz. cans black beans, drained and rinsed

1 1/2 cups frozen yellow corn kernels, rinsed in cold water

1/2 of a green bell pepper, chopped

1/2 of a yellow or orange bell pepper, chopped

1/2 of a red bell pepper, chopped

2 avocados, peeled, pitted, and diced

6 green onions, chopped

Mix together the first five ingredients in a shaker jar with a lid, and mix well to make the dressing (or whisk thoroughly in a small bowl).

Lightly mix the remaining ingredients in a large mixing bowl, pour the dressing over the top, and toss it all together. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.