Bean and Orzo Salad

Makes 6 servings (1 cup/serving)

Ingredients:

• 3 ½ cups cooked orzo
• 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
• ½ cup diced purple onion
• ½ cup chopped parsley, fresh
• ¼ cup chopped basil, fresh
• 1 – 15 oz can of beans of choice, drained
• ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 3 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ teaspoon sugar (optional)
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Directions:

1. Combine orzo, red bell pepper, purple onion, parsley, basil, and beans of choice in a large bowl. Toss well and set aside.
2. Combine balsamic vinegar, water, olive oil, sugar, pepper, salt, and garlic in a bowl and stir well.
3. Pour dressing over orzo and veggie mixture and toss well. Cover and chill until ready to serve.

Nutrition Information per serving:

374 calories

14 grams protein

4.5 grams fiber

3.9 grams fat

0 mg cholesterol

412 grams sodium