3934. WHITE BEAN SALAD with CHEDDAR, BACON and WALNUTS

Makes: 10 servings
Serving Size: about 2/3 cup


2 whole heads garlic
1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil plus 1/3 cup, divided
2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon cider vinegar
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
3/4 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme or 1/4 teaspoon dried
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
3 15-ounce cans navy or great northern beans (see Tip), rinsed
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 medium orange bell pepper, finely diced
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped toasted walnuts
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Remove excess papery skin from garlic heads without separating the cloves. Slice the tips off, exposing the cloves. Place the heads on a piece of foil, drizzle with 1 teaspoon oil and wrap into a package. Roast until the garlic is very soft and starting to brown, 55 to 65 minutes. Carefully unwrap and let cool for 10 minutes.

Squeeze the garlic cloves into a food processor or blender. Add the remaining 1/3 cup oil, vinegar, mustard, thyme, salt and pepper. Puree until smooth.

Combine beans, bacon, bell pepper, celery, walnuts and parsley in a large bowl. Add the dressing and toss to coat. Add cheese and gently stir to combine. Serve at room temperature or cold.


bacon recipe source: EatingWell, May/June 2015