The Best Homemade Dense Bean Salad Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Homemade Dense Bean Salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor. You’ll love how it comes together with minimal effort but delivers maximum taste.
First, it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying dish that keeps you full and energized. Second, the mix of textures—from creamy beans to crunchy veggies—creates a delightful bite every time. Finally, it’s incredibly versatile, perfect as a side dish, a light meal, or even a topping for greens.
Recipe
This homemade dense bean salad is packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and satisfying dish. It’s perfect for meal prep, picnics, or as a hearty side dish. The combination of beans, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing creates a flavorful and filling salad that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes:
- For best results, let the salad chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 0 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
6 servings
Nutrition
This homemade dense bean salad is packed with nutrients and makes a healthy meal. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fiber | 12 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my dense bean salad with grilled chicken or tofu for a satisfying meal, but fish works just as well if I’m feeling fancy. Warm, crusty bread on the side makes it feel extra special, especially when I’ve toasted it with a bit of garlic butter. These simple additions turn the salad into a complete, comforting dish that never disappoints.
Grilled Protein Options
Pairing homemade dense bean salad with grilled proteins can turn a simple meal into something truly special. I love how the smoky char of grilled chicken complements the hearty beans, adding depth to every bite. Grilled shrimp is another favorite—their sweetness contrasts beautifully with the salad’s earthy tones. For a richer option, I’ll often grill beef strips or a juicy steak; the combination feels indulgent yet balanced. Salmon, with its flaky texture and bold flavor, works wonderfully too. Each protein brings its own twist, making the dish feel fresh every time I serve it. Grilling elevates the experience effortlessly.
Fresh Bread Pairings
Though the dense bean salad stands strong on its own, I’ve found that adding fresh bread turns it into a complete, satisfying meal. A crusty baguette, warmed just enough to soften the inside, is my go-to—it soaks up the salad’s dressing without falling apart. For something heartier, I love thick slices of sourdough, toasted lightly for crunch. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll grab a warm pita or focaccia, tearing off pieces to scoop up bites of beans. Trust me, the combo’s unbeatable. Just don’t skip the bread—it’s the perfect partner to balance the salad’s rich, hearty flavors.
