(makes 8 servings)
1 (7.2 oz) pkg "Rice-A-Roni" Rice Pilaf
2 tablespoons of margarine or butter
1 (15 oz) 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 (8 oz) shredded Cheddar cheese
1 small red onion, halved and thinly sliced
1/2 lb. bacon, crisply cooked and drained, chopped
3 radishes, sliced (optional)
tomato, cut into 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 a 9x13 inch baking pan. Cool completely; set aside. In small bowl, mix ranch dressing and sour cream; set aside. In large clear 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.
