Dense Bean Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Dense Bean Salad is a hearty, protein-packed dish that combines various beans with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing. It’s perfect as a standalone lunch, a side dish for grilled meats, or a potluck favorite. Its rich texture and bold flavors make it both satisfying and versatile for any occasion.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

canned kidney beans
canned black beans
chickpeas
red bell pepper
green bell pepper
red onion
celery
parsley
olive oil
red wine vinegar
Dijon mustard
garlic
salt
black pepper

directions

Drain and rinse all canned beans thoroughly and place them in a large mixing bowl.

Dice the red and green bell peppers, red onion, and celery, then add them to the bowl.

Finely chop the parsley and stir it in with the other ingredients.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Add corn or diced avocado for extra texture and flavor.
Use fresh lemon juice instead of vinegar for a citrusy tang.
Include chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Swap parsley with cilantro for a different herb profile.

storage/reheating

Store Dense Bean Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Do not freeze, as the texture of the beans may degrade.
Serve straight from the fridge or allow to come to room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, just be sure to soak and cook them in advance before using in the salad.

Is this salad vegan?

Yes, all ingredients are plant-based.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely, it’s even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

What other dressings can I use?

Italian dressing or balsamic vinaigrette also work well.

Can I add cheese?

Yes, crumbled feta or cubed mozzarella can be a tasty addition.

Conclusion

Dense Bean Salad is a nutritious, colorful, and flavor-packed dish that’s easy to prepare and enjoy. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or making a dish for a gathering, this salad delivers on both taste and satisfaction.

Print