Tia Maria's 3 bean (or more!) delicious salad!

But first on Saturday we went to the farmer's market just to check out what they had and compare prices. I came away only buying one thing: a Patty Pan squash for a whopping $1.75!! I've only bought this once before and I don't remember how much I paid for it. But anyway it's so yummy and great cooked with some pasta.

Here's what it's loaded with:

Manganese
Vitamin C
Very good source of magnesium
Vitamin A (notably through its concentration of carotenoids, including beta-carotene)
Fiber
Potassium
Folate
Copper
Riboflavin
Phosphorus
Many of these nutrients have been shown in studies to be helpful for the prevention of atherosclerosis and diabetic heart disease. Summer squash's magnesium has been shown to be helpful for reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Together with the potassium in summer squash, magnesium is also helpful for reducing high blood pressure. The vitamin C and beta-carotene found in summer squash can help to prevent the oxidation of cholesterol. Since oxidized cholesterol is the type that builds up in blood vessel walls, these nutrients may help to reduce the progression of atherosclerosis. The vitamin folate found in summer squash are needed by the body to break down a dangerous metabolic byproduct called homocysteine, which can contribute to heart attack and stroke risk if levels get too high. Finally, summer squash's fiber has been shown to lower high cholesterol levels, which can help to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and diabetic heart disease. Source

The farmer's market is great to buy some items maybe but I realized it can be expensive. It doesn't seem the best way to save money right now.

Ok so the bean salad was first enjoyed years ago at my Tia Maria's house and I'd never had one before. Her salad has a kick of spice and I believe it's from the red onion.

First I start with 3 different kinds of beans and here's what I used

I'm sure you can use any beans you fancy. I rinsed out all the beans and placed them in my tupperware container. I added oregano, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, red onion, salt and pepper. I don't have measurements because well, I never got any so I taste as I go. I believe however that you don't want to add too much vinegar because the flavors will be stronger the next day.

Soooo good and I had it on top of a salad. I got my veggies and some protein!!