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Healthy Protein-Packed Three Bean Salad Recipe with Easy Zesty Vinaigrette

healthy protein-packed three bean salad - featured image

A vibrant and filling three bean salad with a tangy, zesty vinaigrette that is quick to prepare and packed with protein and fiber. Perfect for lunch, potlucks, or a simple dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup canned green beans, drained (or fresh, blanched)
  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup celery, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas, kidney beans, and green beans thoroughly under cold water. Drain well.
  2. Dice the red bell pepper into small, bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the red onion and thinly slice the celery. Chop the parsley if using.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using until creamy and slightly thickened.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed beans and chopped vegetables. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly.
  5. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate and allow flavors to meld. Overnight marinating is optional for enhanced flavor.
  6. Before serving, stir the salad again and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or a splash of olive oil or vinegar if needed.

Notes

Rinse canned beans well to reduce sodium and canned flavor. Marinate salad for at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Vinaigrette can be made ahead and stored up to a week. Use fresh green beans blanched if preferred. Adjust vinaigrette sweetness and acidity to taste. Garlic can be substituted with garlic-infused oil or omitted for allergies.

Nutrition

Keywords: three bean salad, protein salad, healthy salad, vegan salad, gluten-free salad, easy salad recipe, zesty vinaigrette, quick lunch, plant-based protein