Looking for a quick and delicious side dish that will wow your family and friends? Look no further than Grandma's Three Bean Salad! This vibrant, colorful salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful medley of flavors that will transport you straight to the comfort of home. Packed with protein-rich beans and a tangy vinaigrette, it’s the perfect addition to any meal or a refreshing light lunch on its own. Best of all, it takes just 15 minutes to prepare! Dive into this easy recipe and discover why this classic dish has stood the test of time—your taste buds will thank you!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can green beans, drained
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Drain the green beans, kidney beans, and garbanzo beans thoroughly in a colander, gently shaking to remove excess liquid.
- Finely dice the red onion into small, uniform pieces, ensuring consistent size for even flavor distribution.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained green beans, kidney beans, and garbanzo beans.
- Add the diced red onion to the bean mixture, gently folding to distribute evenly.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved and the dressing is well combined.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the bean mixture, carefully stirring to coat all beans and onions with the dressing.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning gradually and tasting as you go.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and develop.
- Before serving, gently stir the salad and taste, adjusting seasoning if needed.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light lunch.
Tips
- Choose Quality Beans: Opt for high-quality canned beans for the best flavor and texture. Look for brands that are low in sodium or organic if possible.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and flavor. Just make sure to keep the sizes uniform for even distribution.
- Let It Chill: For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the dressing to soak into the beans and enhances the overall taste.
- Adjust the Dressing: Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add a bit more vinegar; for a sweeter touch, increase the sugar slightly.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad keeps well in the fridge for a few days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Just stir it gently before serving to refresh the flavors.
- Serve it Right: Serve this salad as a side dish at barbecues, picnics, or potlucks. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats and sandwiches!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
