Fiesta Salad with Pinto Beans

Yield
4-6 servings, 10 cups

Time
20 minutes to assemble

If you love bean and rice combinations, this recipe will be a favorite! A hearty salad that’s extremely easy to prepare, yet light and refreshing

INGREDIENTS

1/2-16 oz box (8 oz) Notta Pasta Linguine 
6 large plum tomatoes, (about 2 cups) 
1 bunch scallions 
2 avocados  
Juice of one lemon 
1 cup Italian dressing (zesty type), divided 
2-15 oz cans pinto beans, drained 
2 cups grated cheddar cheese 
Salt and fresh cracked pepper 
1/2 cup fresh chopped cilantro or basil 

DIRECTIONS

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil while preparing vegetables for salad. 
  2. Dice plum tomatoes to match size of bean and slice scallions into thin rounds. 
  3. Peel and dice avocados and place in small bowl. Toss with lemon juice until well coated. 
  4. Boil Notta Pasta according to directions on box. Drain and rinse quickly. Toss in a large bowl with ½ cup of the Italian dressing. 
  5. Add beans, tomatoes, scallions, avocados, cheese and remaining dressing. Mix and let stand for 15 minutes to absorb flavor. 
  6. Salt and pepper to taste and add chopped cilantro or basil.  Serve.