Cannellini Bean Salad With Parsley Pesto


Ingredient List:

2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans (rinsed and drained)
3 tablespoons plus 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup minced yellow onions
4 teaspoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Pinch cayenne
1/3 cup very finely grated Parmesan
1 1/2 cups fresh parsley leaves
Toasted pita bread triangles or 1/2-inch thick lightly toasted French bread

Preparation Instructions:

Heat 3 tablespoons of the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and 1 1/2 teaspoons of the garlic and cook until soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add the drained beans, 4 teaspoons of the lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon of the salt, the black pepper and cayenne, and cook, stirring, until softened and warmed through, 3 minutes. Remove from the pan and transfer to a decorative platter. Sprinkle with the Parmesan.

In a blender or bowl of a small food processor, combine the parsley, remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons of garlic, 2 teaspoons of lemon juice and 1/4 teaspoon of salt in a blender or small food processor. Process on high speed for 30 seconds. Add the remaining 1/3 cup oil with the motor running and process until smooth. Adjust seasoning, to taste.

Drizzle the parsley pesto over the beans and serve with the toast for dipping.


Submitted by:Andie - (andiescriptlink.com)
09-24-2001