SENSATIONAL SEVEN LAYER RICE SALAD

1 (7.2-ounce) package RICE-A-RONI Rice Pilaf
2 tablespoons margarine or butter
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained, rinsed
1 cup ranch dressing
1 cup sour cream
4 cups fresh spinach leaves or romaine lettuce, cut into thin strips
3 medium tomatoes, chopped
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (8 ounces)
1 small red onion, halved and thinly sliced
1/2 pound bacon, crisply cooked, drained and chopped
3 radishes, sliced (optional)
Tomato wedges (optional)

In large skillet over medium heat, saute rice-pasta mix with margarine until pasta is golden brown.

Slowly add 1 3/4 cups water and Special Seasonings; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low. Cover; simmer 17 to 22 minutes or until rice is tender.

Stir in black beans. Spread mixture in 9x13-inch baking pan. Cool completely; set aside.

In small bowl, mix ranch dressing and sour cream; set aside.

In large clear glass bowl, layer spinach, tomatoes, cheese, rice-bean mixture and onion, pressing gently after each layer. Spread dressing mixture over top of salad. Sprinkle with bacon. Garnish with radishes and tomato, if desired.

Servings: 8