White Bean Salad

As requested, here is the recipe for my White Bean Salad that was mentioned in this post.

The real name for this is Blue Cheese Bean Salad but since I don't always have blue cheese on hand, I call it White Bean Salad and then add whatever cheese I want!

I'm printing the recipe as it is then I'll add my variations at the end.

Blue Cheese Bean Salad
Recipe courtesy of my sister-in-law, who always makes such yummy gourmet foods when we visit!

2 teaspoons olive oil, divided
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup cider vinegar
2 (16 oz.) cans cannellini or any white beans, rinsed and drained
1 1/2 cup diced tomato
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
1/3 cup fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Crostini, optional

Directions:
Heat 1 teaspoon oil in a nonstick skillet over medium high heat. Add oregano and garlic and saute for 30 seconds. Add vinegar and remove from heat. Combine vinegar mixture and beans in a bowl. Cover and chill 30 minutes.

Add 1 teaspoon oil, diced tomato and the next five ingredients to bean mixture and toss well. Serve with Crostini, if desired.

Crostini:

24-(1/2 inch thick) slices french bread baguette
1 garlic clove, halved
Cooking spray

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Put bread on baking sheet. Bake for 5 minutes or until toasted. Rub cut sides of garlic over 1 side of each slice. Spray with cooking spray. bake for 3 more minutes.

My variations:
--Other cheeses work well in this recipe. I have used feta with good results and shredded Parmesan cheese on top at serving time is delicious as well. Or you can totally omit the cheese altogether. My husband is very fond of blue cheese, so I like to add that whenever I can.

--I usually used dried and cooked beans. About 2 cups cooked beans for each can.

--Regular vinegar works ok.

--Add other herbs if desired. Basil is very tasty!

--If in a hurry, I'll skip the chilling step. Instead, I'll just add everything together and throw into the fridge until serving time.

Enjoy!


**Does anyone have tips for photographing white foods? I have tried to take photos of several different white dishes and they come out horrible. Any tips would be appreciated!