Mediterranean Pinto Beans|||||

This is great way to enjoy the benefits of pinto beans as part of your Healthiest Way of Eating. Like other varieties of beans, pinto beans are an excellent source of health-promoting dietary fiber, which is important for lowering cholesterol levels and helping to keep blood sugar levels from rising too rapidly. Enjoy!

Prep and Cook Time: Prep and cooking time: 15 min; 30 min to marinate

Ingredients:

• 1 large ripe tomato, seeds and excess pulp removed, diced
• 2 TBS finely minced onion
• 4 medium cloves garlic, pressed
• 1 TBS balsamic vinegar
• 2 TBS extra virgin olive oil
• 4 TBS chopped fresh parsley
• pinch red chili flakes
• salt and cracked black pepper to taste
• 1 15 oz can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• Optional: ½ of 2 oz can rinsed and chopped anchovies

Directions:

1. Mince onions and press garlic and let sit for at least 5 minutes to enhance their health-promoting properties.
2. Mix together all ingredients, except beans, in a bowl.
3. Drain and rinse bean well. Toss beans with rest of ingredients. Let marinate for about 30 minutes before serving.