Pear and Black Bean Relish

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A simple set of ingredients come together to create a complex array of flavors and textures.

The idea of combining sweet fruit with a little heat is a tried an true winner. Autumn fruits like apple and pear have an acidic undertone that add another layer of complexity to the classic sweet/heat pairing. Their crunchy texture also adds another dimension.

Don't take my word for it. Try it and see.

Base
1 pear, peeled and diced
1/2 a medium red onion, diced
1 jalapeno, minced
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 can black beans, thoroughly rinsed
1/2 cup fresh basil, sliced thinly

Dressing
1 lime, zest and juice
1/3 cup olive oil
1 tbl hot sauce
1 tbl spicy mustard
2 1/2 tsps salt
1 tsps crushed pepper flakes
1 tsp black pepper

Add all dressing ingredients, except the oil to a small mixing bowl. Whisk in oil. Add base components and stir to coat. Let rest a few hours in the fridge.

Rinse the black beans in a wire strainer under cool running water. If you don't get rid of all of it, the black starchy liquid from the can will muddy your dressing.

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