Black Eyed Pea Salad with Basil Dressing

Eating black-eyed peas on New Year's Day is thought to bring prosperity in the South. I searched and searched for recipes and this one seemed delightful. It is very easy to make and the longer it marinates, the better the final product tastes.

INGREDIENTS:
salad
· 3 cups canned or cooked black-eyed peas (2-15 oz. cans, drained)
· 1/4 tsp. salt
· 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
· 1/2 cup of finely chopped celery
· 1 small sweet red bell pepper, seeded and finely chopped
dressing
· 1/4 cup of cider vinegar
· 3 tbsp. chopped fresh basil
· 2 to 3 medium cloves garlic, crushed
· 1 1/2 tsp. sugar
· 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
· 1/4 tsp. salt
· 1 cup olive oil
· fresh basil or parsley for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS
· In a serving bowl, combine black-eyed peas, 1/4 tsp. salt, chopped onion, celery, and red pepper. Set aside.
· In a separate, whisk together the vinegar, basil, garlic, sugar, remaining 1/4 tsp. salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk in the oil until the dressing is well blended.
· Combine the salad ingredients with the dressing and mix well. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours or overnight. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Happy New Year! I hope this dish brings you good luck in 2009!