Taco Bean Salad

Dressing Ingredients:
1/3 cup tomato juice
2 Tbs red wine vinegar
1 Tbs olive oil
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp dried oregano

Salad Ingredients:
2 to 3 ripe medium tomatoes, chopped
2 scallions (white and light green parts), thinly sliced
1 large green bell pepper, chopped
2 cups baby spinach
1 can pinto or kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheeses
1/3 cup pitted black olives, chopped

1) Dressing: In small bowl or glass jar with tight fitting lid, combine all ingredients and season with freshly ground pepper. Whisk or shake to blend.
2) In large bowl, combine tomatoes, scallions, bell pepper, lettuce, beans, cheese and olives. Add dressing, toss well to coat and serve right away.

Review: This was yummy and a great twist to the traditional salad. My only complaint was that it was a bit too tangy because of the tomato juice.