Three Bean Salad
A quintessential American potluck favorite! This vibrant salad combines crisp green beans, hearty kidney beans, and creamy chickpeas in a perfectly balanced sweet and tangy vinaigrette. It's incredibly simple to prepare and an ideal make-ahead side dish for picnics, barbecues, or light lunches.
For 6 servings
6 steps.
- 1
Prepare the beans and onion
- a.In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed green beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas. Add the finely chopped red onion and gently toss to mix. Set aside.
- 2
Make the vinaigrette
- a.In a separate small bowl or a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Whisk or shake the dressing vigorously for about 30-60 seconds until the sugar has completely dissolved and the mixture is well emulsified.
- 4
Combine and marinate
- a.Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the bean mixture in the large bowl. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all the beans are evenly coated.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, let it marinate for 4 hours or even overnight.
- 6
Before serving, give the salad a final gentle stir
- a.Serve chilled or at room temperature.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. It tastes even better the next day!
- 2Rinsing the canned beans thoroughly under cold water removes excess sodium and improves the texture and taste of the salad.
- 3If you find the flavor of raw red onion too sharp, you can soak the chopped onion in a bowl of cold water for 10-15 minutes, then drain well before adding to the salad.
- 4Use a neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil so it doesn't overpower the other flavors. Olive oil can be used but will lend a stronger taste.
- 5For a pop of freshness, add 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro just before serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Bean Swap
Feel free to substitute any of the beans with others you have on hand. Black beans, pinto beans, or cannellini beans are all excellent choices.
Sugar Free DressingSugar-Free Dressing
For a lower-sugar version, replace the granulated sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of maple syrup, honey, or a sugar substitute like stevia to taste.
Add VeggiesAdd Veggies
Incorporate more vegetables for extra crunch and nutrients. Finely chopped celery, bell peppers (any color), or corn kernels are great additions.
Herbaceous TwistHerbaceous Twist
Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro to the salad just before serving for a brighter, fresher flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Fiber
Beans are loaded with dietary fiber, which is crucial for digestive health, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness, aiding in weight management.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
This salad provides a significant amount of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
Packed with Micronutrients
The combination of beans offers a variety of essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, magnesium, and potassium, which support heart health, energy production, and more.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it can be very healthy. It's packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients from the beans. The main health considerations are the sodium from canned beans (which can be reduced by rinsing) and the sugar in the dressing. You can control the sugar content by making the dressing at home.