Description
Dense bean salads are hearty, protein-packed, and actually satisfying. Loaded with fiber, crunch, and bold flavor, these salads are perfect for meal prep, sides, or a full-on main dish—no limp lettuce here.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley or cilantro
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice or red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: cumin, chili flakes, feta, corn, avocado
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the black beans, chickpeas, kidney beans, bell pepper, onion, cucumber, and herbs.
- In a separate jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice or vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Let the salad sit for at least 10–15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Notes
Mix and match beans and veggies based on what’s in your pantry. Add grilled chicken, tuna, or hard-boiled eggs for extra protein. Make it Mediterranean with feta and olives or Southwest with avocado and corn.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: Flexible
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg