Ingredients

SALAD INGREDIENTS:

6 cups canned or cooked black-eyed peas (4-15 ounce cans, drained)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup finely chopped onion

1 cup finely chopped celery

2 small sweet red bell peppers, seeded and finely chopped

BASIL DRESSING:

1/2 cup cider vinegar

6 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, or 1 teaspoon dried

4 to 6 medium cloves garlic, crushed

3 teaspoons sugar

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 cups olive oil

fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Preparation

In a serving bowl combine black-eyed peas, 1/2 teaspoon salt, chopped onion, celery, and red bell pepper. Set aside.

In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, basil, garlic, sugar, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper.

Gradually whisk in the oil until the dressing is well blended. You can use a blender for this step if desired.

In a medium bowl, combine the black-eyed peas, the chopped onion, celery, bell pepper, and basil dressing. Cover and refrigerate until thoroughly chilled, at least 2 hours or overnight. Serve with a garnish of fresh parsley or basil, if desired.