Cool Beans Salad Recipe
Introduction
Cool Beans Salad is a refreshing and simple dish perfect for warm days or as a healthy side. Combining mixed beans with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing, it offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed beans (cooked or canned, drained and rinsed)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the mixed beans, chopped onion, and diced bell pepper.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, oil, sugar, and salt until the sugar dissolves.
- Step 3: Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Step 4: Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Variations
- For added freshness, include chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
- Use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar to vary the tanginess of the dressing.
- Add diced cucumber or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and color.
- To turn this into a heartier meal, mix in some cooked quinoa or grilled chicken.
Storage
Store the Cool Beans Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving again. It’s best enjoyed chilled and should not be left out at room temperature for extended periods.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use canned beans for this salad?
Yes, canned beans work perfectly. Just be sure to drain and rinse them well to reduce excess sodium and improve texture.
How long should I chill the salad before serving?
Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors blend nicely, but you can leave it longer if preferred for a more pronounced taste.
PrintCool Beans Salad Recipe
A refreshing and nutritious Cool Beans Salad featuring a colorful mix of beans, crisp vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette. Perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack, this salad is easy to prepare and served chilled for maximum flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed beans (such as kidney beans, chickpeas, and black beans), cooked and drained
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar)
- 3 tablespoons oil (olive oil or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Beans and Vegetables: Ensure the mixed beans are fully cooked and drained. Finely chop the onion and dice the bell pepper uniformly to ensure consistent texture throughout the salad.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the mixed beans, chopped onion, and diced bell pepper. Stir gently to mix the components evenly.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, oil, sugar, and salt until the sugar dissolves and the dressing is well combined.
- Mix Salad and Chill: Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss carefully to coat all ingredients evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve: Remove from the refrigerator and stir lightly before serving cold as a refreshing side or light snack.
Notes
- Use canned beans rinsed thoroughly if short on time.
- Adjust sugar and salt according to your taste preferences.
- Add herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra freshness.
- This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- For a spicy twist, add a pinch of chili flakes or finely chopped fresh chili.
Keywords: Cool Beans Salad, Mixed Bean Salad, Vegetarian Salad, Healthy Salad, Chilled Bean Salad, Easy Salad Recipe
