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Dense Bean Salad

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Dense Bean Salad is a hearty, protein-rich salad made with a variety of beans, fresh vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s perfect as a filling main or a colorful side dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or diced
  • 1 cucumber, chopped
  • 1/2 red onion, finely diced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon or whole-grain mustard
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Optional add-ins: corn, crumbled feta cheese, olives, avocado

Instructions

  1. Drain and rinse all beans thoroughly and place them in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Add chopped tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper to the bowl with the beans.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture.
  5. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
  6. Stir in chopped parsley or cilantro.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar/lemon juice if needed.
  8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Notes

Use any combination of beans you prefer, including freshly cooked beans.Add feta or avocado for extra richness.Toss in corn, olives, or fresh herbs for variety.Use balsamic vinegar for a sweeter twist.Let sit longer in the fridge for deeper flavor development.

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