Looking for a quick, nutritious, and utterly delicious side dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than this Homemade Three Bean Salad! Bursting with vibrant colors and packed with protein, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a perfect companion for any meal. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a refreshing dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a wholesome salad that’s both satisfying and delightful!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 can green beans, drained
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed and drained kidney beans, chickpeas, and green beans. Ensure all beans are well-drained to prevent excess liquid in the salad.
- Finely dice the red onion into small, uniform pieces. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the diced onions in cold water for 5 minutes, then drain before adding to the bean mixture.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and pepper to create a tangy vinaigrette dressing. Mix thoroughly until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the bean mixture, gently tossing to ensure all beans are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. For best results, let the salad marinate for 1-2 hours before serving.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish. The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Tips
- Bean Variations: Feel free to mix and match your beans! Black beans or pinto beans can add a unique twist to the salad. Just remember to rinse and drain them well for the best texture.
- Onion Soaking: If you're sensitive to the sharpness of raw onions, soak the diced red onion in cold water for 5 minutes before adding it to the salad. This will mellow the flavor and make it more palatable.
- Flavor Infusion: For an even more flavorful salad, let it marinate in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before serving. This allows the beans to absorb the tangy vinaigrette and enhances the overall taste.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light lunch on its own. Consider serving it on a bed of greens for an added crunch.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad can last up to 3-4 days, making it a great option for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
