Low-Fat Black Bean-Pasta Salad (Vegan)

Ingredients

• 6 ounces whole wheat rotini

• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 ounces sliced black olives, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 carrots, grated
• 1/2 cup green onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 fresh jalapeno, minced (or other hot pepper) (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or fresh parsley, chopped
• 15 ounces chunky salsa (I like Pace)
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon pepper

Directions

1. 1

   Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, mix the pasta, beans, and veggies.

3. 3

   Toss with salsa and lemon pepper. This can be served immediately, but the flavor is better if it is refrigerated for a few hours or overnight.