Quick Three-Bean Salad
This Quick Three-Bean Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-dense side dish or light lunch that comes together in just 10 minutes. Featuring chickpeas, kidney beans, and black beans, it's dressed in a tangy-sweet vinaigrette with fresh vegetables.
For 6 servings
Thoroughly rinse and drain all three cans of beans under cold water until no foam remains; set aside.
Finely dice the red onion and celery. Chop the fresh parsley.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder (if using), salt, and black pepper until the dressing is well emulsified.
Add the rinsed and drained chickpeas, kidney beans, and black beans to the bowl with the dressing.
Stir in the finely diced red onion, celery, and chopped fresh parsley.
Gently toss all ingredients until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or a splash more vinegar for brightness.
For optimal flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. The salad tastes even better after marinating for an hour or two.
Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish, light lunch, or addition to a picnic spread.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use a good quality extra virgin olive oil in your dressing.
- 2Don't skip the marinating step; even 10 minutes makes a difference, but longer allows the beans to absorb more of the dressing's delicious flavors.
- 3To add extra crunch and color, consider adding finely diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) or a handful of corn kernels.
- 4This salad is excellent for meal prep! Make a larger batch and enjoy it throughout the week; flavors will deepen over time.
Adapt it for your goals.
Bean Swap
Substitute one of the beans with cannellini beans, great northern beans, or pinto beans for a slightly different texture and flavor profile.
Herb BoostHerb Boost
Experiment with other fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, or chives for a different aromatic twist.
Veggie PowerVeggie Power
Incorporate diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots for added freshness, vitamins, and texture.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Fiber
Beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Plant-Based Protein
This salad provides a significant amount of plant-based protein, making it a satisfying and muscle-supporting option for vegetarians and vegans.
Nutrient-Dense
Rich in essential vitamins and minerals like iron, folate, potassium, and magnesium, contributing to overall health and energy.
Frequently asked questions
Absolutely! This three-bean salad is fantastic for making ahead. In fact, the flavors deepen and meld beautifully after a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container.
