Easy Summer Salad - Sweet & Spicy

Try this healthy summer salad that’s super simple and fast to make ahead of time. You have a cucumber base with black beans (or kidney beans) and corn added. Throw in two large avocados, cherry tomatoes, green peppers and cilantro, and you have a refreshing salad that is perfect to take along to your next picnic or family gathering. 

Ingredients: 
(Serves about 8; use organic vegetables whenever possible)

• 2 English cucumbers, diced
• 2 cups black or kidney beans, cooked and rinsed (drained and rinsed if using canned)
• 2 cups frozen organic corn, thawed but still cold
• 2 red bell peppers, diced
• 3 cups cherry tomatoes, cut into halves 
• 2 large avocados, diced
• one large bunch of cilantro leaves, chopped
  
  

Sweet + Spicy Dressing

• 6 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 Tbsps raw honey
• 2 Tbsps organic extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 Tbsp fresh garlic minced
• 1/2-1 Tbsp fresh chili pepper, minced (depending on heat preferred...some peppers are hotter than others!) OR 1 Tbsp of your favorite hot sauce
• sea salt and pepper to taste (about a 1/2 tsp. each)
  
  

Instructions

1. Place the cucumber, black beans, corn, red pepper, cherry tomatoes, avocado and chopped cilantro in a large glass bowl.
2. In a smaller bowl, whisk all the dressing ingredients until combined well.
3. When ready to serve the salad, drizzle the dressing over, and gently toss to combine. Enjoy!