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Fresh Loaded Vegetarian Bean Salad

fresh loaded vegetarian bean salad - featured image

A quick, colorful, and hearty vegetarian bean salad perfect for a healthy lunch or casual gatherings. Combines a mix of beans, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing for a satisfying and vibrant meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup (120 g) fresh corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup (10 g) fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Drain and rinse the black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas under cold water. Let them drain in a colander for a few minutes.
  2. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the red bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, and roughly chop the cilantro or parsley. Remove kernels from fresh corn or thaw frozen corn and drain excess water.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the beans, chopped vegetables, and herbs. Pour the dressing over and gently toss to combine, being careful not to mash the beans.
  5. Let the salad rest for at least 15 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Before serving, stir the salad again and adjust seasoning with additional salt or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Notes

Rinse canned beans thoroughly to remove excess salt and metallic taste. Letting the salad rest enhances flavor. For vegan, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave. Add cayenne or jalapeño for heat. Keep dressing separate if prepping ahead to maintain crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: vegetarian bean salad, healthy lunch, quick salad, colorful salad, easy recipe, vegetarian, gluten-free, vegan option