Cuisinart's 'Get Cooking' Contest - who will be the winner?!

I can't wait to hear the results of Cuisinart's 'Get Cooking!' Contest.  Pantry2Plate was selected as a finalist and they are expected to announce the winner this week!  Have you tried the Polenta Fries yet?  One bite and you'll be hooked! 

Clean Out Cabinets Bean Dip

Staring down a lazy Sunday and one actually in town, I did what I always do...tackle a kitchen clean out and pantry reorganization job.  After I quick trip to the grocery store this morning, I found that I was running out of room in the pantry...not a problem I often run into but it happened today. So, out with the old and in with the new.  I had cans upon cans of beans that needed to see the light of day so a quick fix was in order.  I love Southern Caviar, (Paula Deen is the southern cooking queen!) so here's today's variation on the tailgate favorite based on what I had to use:
1 can black beans
1 can garbanzo beans
1 can northern beans
1 small can Rotel with green chilis
1 medium yellow onion
1 pint sunburst tomatoes
2 cloves of garlic
10 leaves fresh basil
1 bottle of Trader Joe's Tuscan Italian Dressing
Salt and Pepper

Dice the onions and garlic, half or quarter the tomatoes and roll the basil leaves together for a chiffonade.  Drain all the beans and rinse.  All goes into one bowl, toss with the dressing and salt and pepper to taste.  I love this dip or bean salad or whatever you want to call it because it is so versatile.  Today, I enjoyed it with soy and flax seed tortilla chips but I think it's great over romaine lettuce with grilled chicken or even served bruschetta style over grilled garlic bread.  It's a great way to empty the cabinets and enjoy a protein packed snack!

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Clean Out the Cabinets Bean Dip