Recipe(tried): Whatever Bean Salad (make ahead - great for potlucks)

WHATEVER BEAN SALAD

I make this all the time. You can use any combination of beans listed, I usually use about 4 different ones plus the corn, onion and carrots. I add the bell pepper when I have it and use either canned tomatoes or fresh depending on the season.

1 can black eye peas, drained
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can red beans, drained and rinsed
1 can lima beans, drained
1 can green beans, drained (any cut)
1 can whole kernel corn (or yellow and white tendercrisp, or shoepeg)
1/2 to 1 whole diced bell pepper (I use whatever color I have on hand)
1/2 cup finely diced carrots
approx 1/2 cup frozen english peas
3 thinly sliced green onions, white and green parts (or 1/2 diced wite, red or yellow onion)
1 handful cherry tomatoes( or diced fresh tomato, or 1 Can diced tomatoes, drained)
1 bottle Italian dressing
1 tsp minced garlic (or sprinkle on a generous helping of garlic powder)

Take whichever ingredients you have on hand and mix them in a large bowl.

Add dressing and garlic. Let sit in fridge for a few hours to mingle flavors.

The true beauty of this is that you can absolutely use whatever you have! This travels well and keeps forever in the fridge. It is great for potlucks or just to have on hand as a snack!