black bean & avocado salad

I'm not a cook and even microwaving a bag of popcorn used to cause me kitchen anxiety but after taking a few vegetarian cooking classes at Credible Edibles (Green Cuisine; Vegan Easter Feast & Cooking with Chocolate), I'm starting to relax and realize that cooking is less about perfection and more about creativity.  Here is a fresh and easy black bean & avocado salad recipe I found in a thrifted cookbook that would be perfect with a pitcher of sangria and a good book on a hot summer's day!

{Adapted from The Essential Vegetarian Cookbook}

Prep time: 15 mins + overnight soaking

Total cooking time: 1.5 hours

Serves: 4

Salad 

250g (8oz) dried black beans

1 red onion, chopped

4 Roma tomatoes, chopped

1 red pepper, chopped

375g (12oz) canned corn kernels, drained

90g (3oz) fresh coriander (I used cilantro instead), roughly chopped

2 avocados, peeled and chopped

1 mango, peeled and chopped

150g (4.75oz) rocket leaves

Dressing

1 clove garlic, crushed

1 small red chili, finely chopped

2 tablespoons lime juice

1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil 
Salt and pepper to taste

(I also added approx 1/2 cup of salsa for more colour and flavour)

1. Soak the beans in cold water overnight.  Rinse; drain.  Place the beans into a large heavy-based pan, cover with water and bring to a boil.  Reduce the heat and simmer for 1.5 hours, or until tender.  Drain and cool slightly.

2. Place the beans, onion, tomatoes, pepper, corn, coriander/cilantro, avocado, mango and rocket into a large bowl and toss to combine.

3. To make dressing- place all ingredients in a bowl, whisk, pour over the salad and serve.  (I poured salsa over the salad afterwards for some added zestiness!)

You know what else black beans are delicious in? Black bean brownies! I know what you're thinking but honestly this sugar free, vegan dessert (that I learned how to bake at Credible Edibles) is divine- I will share this recipe with you soon!

Jeans, Jacket, Jeans, Shoes, Ring, Belt & Scarf- Thrifted; Top- Swapped; Nail Polish- Flirt by Revlon

And even though I'm well on my way to becoming a domestic goddess (ha!) I forgo the apron for a coral jacket and flight attendant-esque scarf when I'm cooking up a storm!