Bean Dip

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WHAT'S IN IT

1 can black-eyed peas

1 can pinto beans

1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes

1 can organic white corn

4 oz jar of pimientos

I sweet pepper, chopped

I cup chives, chives

¼ cup parsley, chopped

In a large bowl, combine beans, tomatoes, corn and pimientos (drain juices before mixing if you don't want soupy dip). Add pepper, chives and parsley. Mix gently.

 HOW TO MAKE IT

TO MAKE THE DRESSING: combine the following ingredients in a small pan, and heat to a gentle boil. Pour over mixture when cooled and mix together.

½ cup olive oil (or coconut oil)

½ cup cider or red wine vinegar

2 T honey

1 t salt

1 t pepper

1-2 cloves pressed garlic

WHY IT'S HEALTHY

Black-eyed peas are high in dietary fiber which helps improve the health of the entire body, especially the digestive system. They are also high in iron, folate (a B vitamin needed to make normal red blood cells) and potassium - a mineral that helps keep your blood pressure levels at healthy numbers and lowers your risk of heart disease.  Pinto beans contain kaempferol, a flavonoid known to help reduce inflammation. Studies have found that one of the benefits of eating foods that contain kaempferol includes reducing the risk of developing cancer. Pinto beans can also be helpful in reducing cholesterol levels. Tomatoes are high in antioxidants and one of the best sources of the phytonutrient called lycopene, which is closely tied to enhanced immunity and cancer risk reduction. They have healthy amounts of vitamin E, thiamin, niacin, Vitamin B6 and magnesium. Organic White Corn is a good source of Vitamin C, magnesium, some B vitamins and potassium. It also supplies a good dose of two antioxidants linked to eye and skin health called zeaxanthin and lutein. Pimento has detoxifying, antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-stress properties. It can help boost the immune system. Bell peppers help to lower cholesterol levels, and contain anti-cancer compounds that can help lower the risk of prostate, breast, lung, and colon cancer. Bell peppers are highly beneficial for the brain and can help to strengthen memory and reduce brain fog. Parsley is a detoxifier and full of nutrition, including B vitamins as well as vitamins A, C, and K. If you are low in trace minerals; parsley provides magnesium, sulfur, iron, zinc, manganese, molybdenum, chromium, selenium, iodine, and calcium.  It’s also helpful for anything related to the mouth; like gum disease and tooth decay. Olive oil has a monounsaturated fatty acid called oleic acid which is heart-healthy and helps fight free radical damage.  Coconut oil reduces inflammation, helps boost the immune system, improves the LDL:HDL ratio, and improves energy and endurance. Garlic has high levels of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and B-6, and minerals such as selenium, calcium, copper, and iron. Garlic also contains strong antibiotic, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties.

ENJOY!