Diva Cooking 101

Divas cook gorgeous things that are fabulous enough to share with friends and family. They just don't cook much. Every diva needs a few, easy signature dishes to get by. Are you a diva cook?

Divas cook while listening to Billie Holiday, Muddy Waters, or the Rolling Stones.

Divas cook while sipping Champagne, Chardonnay, or a martini.

Divas cook with a feather boa draped around their shoulders.

While cooking, divas nibble gin-soaked olives or Champagne-saturated strawberries.

Divas cook while wearing an apron that says, "Tomorrow is another Chardonnay."

A diva's favorite breakfast is last night's appetizers.

Divas don't stress over particular amounts in any recipe. Glugs, plops, and handfuls are accurate enough.

Divas can cook with boas because diva recipes do not require many steps. Still, the food is fabulous.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Spicy Bean Salad

When it comes to choosing beans, I opt for pinto because they’re pink, and kidney, because I have always loved the color combination of pink and cranberry. In addition to being gorgeous, this recipe is zesty and feisty. (photo by Ema Yudistira)

This dish is also nice for us divas who need more fiber, fewer calories, and lower cholesterol choices.

Spicy Bean Salad

3 cans of various beans (such as pinto, kidney, and northern)

1 can diced tomatoes

1 can corn

1/2 red onion, chopped

Juice of 1 lime (or a few capfuls of Rose’s Lime Juice kept nearby for margaritas)

¼ cup olive oil

¼ cup champagne vinegar

Salt & Pepper

Cayenne to taste

Mix beans, corn, and onion well.
Add lime juice, oil, and vinegar. Stir to coat.
Season with salt, pepper and cayenne to taste.
Serve immediately, or set aside for 30 minutes for flavors to intensify.

Options: Northern, Garbanzo, or Cannalini beans are all fine alternatives. Your salad won’t be quite so pink, though.

Make into a meal: Serve with grilled shrimp or salmon with lime sauce and grilled asparagus.

Wine: Chardonnay works best with buttery beans or Chianti to accompany the spices.

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